'Senior Division, No. 286, Fourth Quarter, 1966
THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE
THE BLESSING
-
OF DAILY STUDY
"The beauty and riches of the Word have a transforming influence on
mind ,and character."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 132.
"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the
study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts,
'to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If
.God's Word were studied as it should' be, men would have a breadth of
mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these
times:"---LSteps to Christ,
page 9o.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I
pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my
Sabbath School lesson each day of the week.
Nano,
Lesson .Titles for the Quarter
1.
Christlikeness
2.
The Spirit of Forgiveness
3.
The Spirit of Humility
4.
The Spirit of Christian Courtesy
5.
The Spirit of Self-Control
6.
The Spirit of Kindness
7.
The Spirit of Self-Denial
'8. The Spirit of Zealous Service
9.
The Spirit of Prayer
10.
The Spirit of Courage
11.
The Spirit of Giving
12.
The Spirit of Faithfulness
13.
The Spirit of BrotherhOod
14.
Becoming Like Him
'NOTE.—All Scripture references quoted from Phillips are taken from
The
New Testament in Modern English
by J. B. Phillips, copyright 1958. Used by
permission of the Macmillan Company.
All Scripture references quoted from the N.E.B. are from
The New English
Bible,
copyright by The Delegates of the Oxford University Press and The
Syndics of the Cambridge University Press, 1961. Used by permission of the
Oxford University Press, Inc., New York City.
All Scripture references quoted from
The Amplified New Testament
and
The
Amplified Old Testament
are used by permission of The Lockman Foundation,
Santa Ana, California.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 286, October-December, 1966. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a
year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A:
by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View,
California 94040. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. Form 3579
requested. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.
Copyright, 1966, by Pacific Press Publishing Association.
Printed in U.S.A.
COVER: JOHN STEEL, ARTIST; ® P.P.P.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE
.
Lesson 1, for October 1, 1966
Christlikeness
MEMORY VERSE:
"Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none
of His." Rom. 8:9, last part.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "Steps to Christ," chapter, "Growing
Up Into Christ."
STUDY AIM:
To behold Christ and to emulate His character.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
Tuesday: Questions 3-6.
memory verse.
Wednesday: Questions 7-10.
0
Monday: Questions 1, 2; begin
Thursday: Questions
11-13;
finish
reading study helps.
reading study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
'Introduction
I. The 'Spirit of Christ
1.
Isaiah foretells the spirit of Christ's
ministry. Isa. 11:1-5; 61:1-3.
2.
Isaiah's prophecy fufilled. Matt. 9:
36; Luke 9:51-56; Eph. 5:2;
Gal. 6:2.
II. In Christ's Image, in Spirit and
Character
3.
Christ, the image of the invisible
God. Col. 1:13-15; Heb. 1:1-3.
4.
Man made in the image of God..
Gen. 1:26, 27.
5.
Man predestined to be like
God's Son. Rom. 8:29.
6.
Christlikeness, evidence of the
new birth. Col. 3:8-10.
III. We Must Be Like Him
7.
We should walk as He walked.
1 John 2:6.
8.
Without His Spirit we are not His.
Rom. 8:9, last part.
IV. Help to Become Like Him
9.
Power inherent in the promises of
God. 2 Peter 1:4.
10.
God "stablishes us." 2 Cor. 1:
21, 22.
V. Forever Like Him
11.
"The image of the heavenly."
1 Cor. 15:49.
12.
Like Him at His appearing.
1 John 3:2; 1 Cor. 15:51-54.
13.
Like His glorious body. Phil.
3:20, 21.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Live and their beauty of character. He looks
to see how much of His Spirit they possess
"Not by their wealth, their education,
and how much of His likeness their life
or their position does God estimate men.
reveals. To be great in God's kingdom
He estimates therri by their purity of mo-
is to be as a little child in humility, in
[ 3 ]
simplicity of faith, and in purity of love."
—The Ministry of Healing,
pages 477, 478.
The Spirit of Christ
1.
What did Isaiah say would char-
acterize the work of the Messiah?
Isa. 11:1-5; 61:1-3. Compare Luke 4:
16-21.
2.
How is the spirit of Christ's min-
istry described by New Testament
writers? Matt. 9:36; Luke 9:51-56;
Eph. 5:2; Gal. 6:2.
In Christ's Image, in Spirit
and Character
3.
Who is the perfect image of
God? Col. 1:13-15; Heb. 1:1-3.
NOTE.—"Christ is the visible representa-
tion of the invisible God." Col. 1:15, Wey-
mouth. "To see what God is like, we must
look at Jesus. Jesus perfectly represents,
perfectly manifests God to men, in a form
which men can see and know and under-
stand."—William Barclay,
The Letter to
the Colossians,
page 140.
4.
In whose image was man cre-
ated? Gen. 1:26, 27.
NOTE.—"When Adam came from the
Creator's hand, he bore, in his physical,
mental, and spiritual nature, a likeness to
his Maker. 'God created man in His own
image' (Genesis 1:27), and it was His
purpose that the longer man lived the
more fully he should reveal this image—
the more fully reflect the glory of the
Creator. All his faculties were capable of
development; their capacity and vigor
were continually to increase. . . . Had he
remained loyal to God, all this would have
been his forever. Throughout eternal ages
he would have continued to gain new
treasures of knowledge, to discover fresh
springs of happiness, and to obtain clearer
and yet clearer conceptions of the wisdom,
the power, and the love of God. More
and more fully would he have fulfilled the
object of his creation, more and more
fully have reflected the Creator's glory."—
Education,
page 15.
5.
What was God's original plan
for man? Rom. 8:29.
NOTE.—"To share the likeness of His
Son." Weymouth.
"It is the glorious destiny of every Chris-
tian to be changed into the likeness of
Christ, the Son of God. . . . How such a
marvelous transformation may take place
is the good news of the gospel. . . . The
change is effected by the union of the
human with the divine. As the Son of God
took upon Himself our human nature, so
Christians may become the temples of
the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19), and Christ
will dwell in them (John 14:23). . . . By
patient endurance of suffering his character
is continually made more and more like
that of the Saviour, . . . until the day of
final glorification, when the likeness will
be made complete."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on Rom. 8:29.
6.
What is one of the greatest evi-
dences that we have truly put on the
new man in Christ Jesus? Col. 3:8-10.
NOTE.—When we are renewed "after the
image of Him that created" us—when we
are truly Christlike, manifesting the spirit
of Christ in our daily lives—then men
will know that we have been born again.
Sanctification, with its constant goal of
Christlikeness, is a continuous process
throughout our lifetime. The New English
Bible renders Colossians 3:10, "The new
nature, which is being constantly renewed
in the image of its Creator."
We Must Be Like Him
7.
How does John say Christlike-
ness will be manifested in the life of
an individual? 1 John 2:6.
[ 4 ]
NoTE.—If we have the Spirit of Christ,
we will walk in the footsteps of Christ.
With His help and by His grace we will
keep all of the commandments. "Obedience
is the test of whether we really live 'in
God' or not. The life of a man who pro-
fesses to be living in God must bear the
stamp of Christ." 1 John 2:5, 6, Phillips.
8. What does the apostle Paul say
about those who do not manifest the
presence of the Spirit of Christ in
their daily lives? Rom. 8:9, last part.
NOTE.—"Through faith in Christ, every
deficiency of character may be supplied,
every defilement cleansed, every fault cor-
rected, every excellence developed."—Ed-
ucation, page 257.
"The followers of Christ are to become
like Him—by the grace of God to form
characters in harmony with the principles
of His holy law. . .
"This work can be accomplished only
through faith in Christ, by the power of
the indwelling Spirit of God."—The
Great
Controversy,
page 469.
Forever Like Him
NOTE.—"It is not by arbitrary law or
rule that the graces of character are de-
veloped. It is by dwelling in the atmo-
sphere of the pure, the noble, the true.
And wherever there is purity of heart and
nobleness of character, it will be revealed
in purity and nobleness of action and of
speech."—Education,
page 237.
Help to Become Like Him
9.
What is one means by which
Christians may. become partakers of
the divine nature? 2 Peter 1:4.
NoTE.—We become "partakers of the
divine nature"—Christlike---through the
power contained in the precious promises
of the Word. There is an inspired promise
for our every need.
"Real refinement of thought and manner
is better learned in the school of the divine
Teacher than by any observance of set
rules. His love pervading the heart gives
to the character those refining touches
that fashion it in the semblance of His
own. This education imparts a heaven-
born dignity and sense of propriety. It
gives a sweetness of disposition and a
gentleness of manner that can never be
equaled by the superficial polish of fash-
ionable
society."—Education,
page 241.
10.
Who alone has power to impart
the spirit of Christ to our hearts?
2 Cor. 1:21, 22.
11.
How does Paul describe the
transformation of the born-again
child of God? 1 Cor. 15:49.
NOTE.—"Let us also bear the image of
the [Man] of heaven." The Amplified New
Testament. "Of the heavenly Man."
N.E.B.
12.
When will we become like
Jesus in body as well as in character?
1 John 3:2; 1 Cor. 15:51-54.
NOTE.—"We know that when He comes
and
is manifested we shall [as God's chil-
dren] , resemble
and
be like Him, for we
shall see Him just as He [really] is."
1 John 3:2, The Amplified New Testament.
13.
What does Paul say of the
eternal likeness of the redeemed to
the Redeemer? Phil. 3:20, 21.
NoTE.—"He will remake these wretched
bodies of ours to resemble His own
glorious body." Phil. 3:21, Phillips.
"All come forth from their graves the
same in stature as when they entered the
5
tomb. Adam, who stands among the risen
throng, is of lofty height and majestic
form, in stature but, little below the Son
of God. He presents a marked contrast to
the people of later generations; in
.
this
one respect is shown the great degeneracy
of the race. But all arise with the fresh-
ness and vigor of eternal youth. In the
beginning, man was created in the likeness
of God, not only in character, but in
form and feature. Sin defaced and almost
obliterated the divine image; but Christ
came to restore that which had been
lost. He will change our vile bodies and'
fashion them like unto His glorious body.
The mortal, corruptible form, devoid of
comeliness, once polluted with sin, becomes'
perfect, beautiful, and immortal. All blem-
ishes and deformities are left in the grave.
Restored to the tree of life in the long-
lost Eden, the redeemed will 'grow up'
(Malachi 4:2) to the full stature of the
race in its primeval glory."—The
Great
Controversy,
pages 644, 645.
Personal Appeal
Do I possess the spirit of Christ?
Can those with whom I associate see
Jesus in me?
Would people obtain an accurate picture
of Jesus if I were His only representative
in my community?
"There are among us those
who, if they would take time
to consider, would regard
their do-nothing position as
a sinful neglect of their God-
given
talents."—Christian .
Service,
page 85.
Lesson 2, for October 8, 1966
The Spirit of Forgiveness
MEMORY VERSE:
"Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any
man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."
Col. 3:13.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "Thoughts From the Mount of Bless-
ing," 1956 ed., pp. 1 13-1 16 (1943 ed., pp. 166-169); "Christ's Object Lessons,"
chapter, "The Measure of Forgiveness." For other Spirit of Prophecy comments
see "Forgiveness" and "Pardon" in "Index to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To contrast God's pardoning grace with man's spirit, and to deN;elop
a
more Christlike spirit of forgiveness.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: Questions 1-3; learn
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 10-13.
0
memory verse.
D
Thursday: Finish reading study
Monday: Questions 4-7.
0
helps.
.
0
Tuesday: Questions
8, 9; begin
reading study helps.
0
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
[ 6 ]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Christ's Spirit of Forgiveness
1.
The law of unlimited forgiveness.
Matt. 18:23-35.
2.
Christ's supreme example of for-
giveness. Luke 23:33, 34.
3.
Stephen's Christlike prayer. Acts
7:60.
II. The Measure of God's Forgiveness
4.
God's forgiveness described.
Isa. 55:7; 44:22; 43:25.
5.
Sins cast into the depths of the sea.
Micah 7:18, 19.
6.
Sins removed as far as east from
west. Ps. 103:3, 12.
7.
Cleansing as well as forgiveness.
1 John 1:9.
The Forgiveness God Requires
of His Children
8.
Forgive as Christ forgave you.
Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13.
9.
We must endeavor to be recon-
ciled. Matt. 18:15-17.
10.
God forgives us as we forgive
others. Matt. 6:12; 7:2; Luke 11:4.
11.
No limit to our forgiveness.
Luke 17:3, 4; Matt. 18:21, 22.
12.
We must not refuse to pardon
others. Matt. 6:14, 15.
13.
Passing over others' mistakes.
Prov. 19:11, last part.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"One of the most common sins, and
one that is attended with most pernicious
results, is the indulgence of an unforgiving
spirit. How many will cherish animosity
or revenge, and then bow before God and
ask to be forgiven as they forgive."-
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 170.
Christ's Spirit of Forgiveness
1.
How did Jesus set forth the law
of unlimited forgiveness in one of
His parables? Matt. 18:23-35.
NOTE.
-"The
great lesson of the parable
lies in the contrast between God's com-
passion and man's hardheartedness; in the
fact that God's forgiving mercy is to be
the measure of our
own."-Christ's Object
Lessons,
page 251.
2.
What supreme example of for-
giveness does Luke record? Luke 23:
33, 34.
NOTE.
-"All
heaven was filled with won-
der when the prayer of Christ was offered
in the midst of His terrible suffering,-
`Father, forgive them; for they know not
what they do.' . . . Yet there stood men,
formed in the image of God, joining to
crush out the life of His only-begotten
Son. What a sight for the heavenly uni-
verse!"-The
Desire of Ages,
page 760.
3.
How did Stephen manifest the
spirit of Christ toward his murder-
ers? Acts 7:60.
NOTE.
-"In
pleading for them he [Ste-
phen] revealed how fully he had acquired
the forgiving spirit that had characterized
his Master,"-S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Acts 7:60.
The Measure of God's Forgiveness
4.
What is the measure of God's
forgiveness? Isa. 55:7; 44:22; 43:25.
NOTE.
-"In
God's forgiveness the heart .
of the erring one is drawn close to the
great heart of Infinite Love. The tide of
divine compassion flows into the sinner's
soul, and from him to the souls of others.
The tenderness and mercy that Christ has
revealed in His own precious life will be
7
seen in those who become sharers of His
grace."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 251.
"God's pardon is like His giving—`good
measure . . . and running over.' Luke 6:38.
How all-inclusive is the word 'abundantly,'
which Isaiah uses to describe God's par-
doning power."—Robert H. Pierson,
Give
Us This Day,
page 53.
5.
How completely does God for-
give our sins? Micah 7:18, 19.
NOTE.—"If you take even one step
toward Him in repentance, He will hasten
to enfold you in His arms of infinite love.
His ear is open to the cry of the contrite
soul. The very first reaching out of the
heart after God is known to Him."—
Christ's Object Lessons,
page 206.
6.
What does God do with con-
fessed and forsaken sins? Ps. 103:3, 12.
NOTE.—"What a blessed assurance for
each of us today: 'As far as the east is
from the west, so far hath He removed
our transgressions from us.' Satan cannot
find our confessed sins, for God has re-
moved them beyond his reach. . . .
"Satan sometimes holds past sins over
our heads. He would make us feel that
our case is hopeless, that we must be on
probation for some time. Away with
such thoughts. Through Jesus' blood the
mistakes of yesterday are cared for."—
Give Us This Day,
page 48.
7.
What follows God's forgiveness?
1 John 1:9.
NOTE.—"Divine forgiveness is not merely
a legal transaction that wipes from the
record the sins of the past, but a trans-
-forming power that eradicates sin from
the life. By blotting out transgression God
transforms sinners into saints. . . . That
is, once they [our sins] are confessed, for-
saken, and forgiven. God treats the re-
pentant sinner as if he had never sinned."
—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on Isa. 43:25.
The Forgiveness God Requires
of His Children
8.
What is to be the standard of
our spirit of forgiveness? Eph. 4:32;
Col. 3:13.
NOTE.—"The Lord Himself is the only
model we should attempt to follow. . . .
Forgiveness for men was purchased at
infinite cost, whereas it cost men nothing,
except the sacrifice of some personal pride,
to forgive others. Our forgiveness is to be
measured against the divine forgiveness, . . .
a fact that becomes the more startling
the more it is pondered."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Eph. 4:32.
9.
What is to be our attitude
toward one who refuses to be recon-
ciled? Matt. 18:15-17.
NOTE.—"If those who have injured us,
still continue in their course of wrong-
doing . . . we must make efforts to be
reconciled to our brethren, following the
Bible plan, as Christ Himself has directed.
If our brethren refuse to be reconciled, then
do not talk about them, nor injure their
influence, but leave them in the hands
of a just God, who judgeth all men
righteously."—Ellen G. White,
Sons and
Daughters of God,
page 90.
10.
Why is it important that we
fully forgive our debtors? Matt. 6:12;
7:2; Luke 11:4.
NOTE.—"We are not forgiven
because
we
forgive, but
as
we
forgive."—Christ's Ob-
ject Lessons,
page 251.
11.
How many times are we to for-
give those who have wounded us?
Luke 17:3, 4; Matt. 18:21, 22.
NoTE.—Forgiveness is not a matter of
arithmetic; it is a matter of following
[
8]
Christ—of being truly born again. It is a
matter of compassion, mercy, and love.
"Will you not, if anyone has done you
a wrong, and is too proud and stubborn
to say to you, 'I repent,' go to the offender
and say,
love you for Christ's sake, and
I forgive you the injury you have done
me'? Jesus will witness and approve of this
deed of love; and as you do to others, it
shall be done again to
you."—Sons and
Daughters of God,
page 153.
12. What is the peril of cherishing
an unforgiving spirit? Matt. 6:14, 15.
NOTE.—"He who is unforgiving cuts off
the very channel through which alone he
can receive mercy from God. We should
not think that unless those who have in-
jured us confess the wrong we are justified
in withholding from them our forgive-
ness. . . . However sorely they may have
wounded us, we are not to cherish our
grievances and sympathize with ourselves
over our injuries."—Thoughts
From the
Mount of Blessing,
pages 113, 114.
13. What is said to be a man's
glory? Prov. 19:11, last part.
Personal Appeal
Do I manifest Christ's spirit of forgive-
ness?
Am I cherishing a grudge in my heart
against anyone?
Do I "forget" as well as forgive?
"In studying the Scriptures,
in manifesting an unselfish
interest in others, in doing
those things that will please
the Saviour, you will grow
in grace and in the knowl-
edge of our Lord and
Sav-
iour."—Counsels
on Sabbath
School Work;
page 69.
Lesson 3, for October 15, 1966
The Spirit of Humility
MEMORY VERSE:
"Take My
yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek
and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." Matt. 11:29.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "The Desire of Ages," pages 135, 138,
242, 243. For further Spirit of Prophecy comments see "Humility" in "Index
to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
Rightly to understand and to practice the spirit •of true
humility.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Tuesday: Questions 5-9.
Wednesday: Questions 10-13.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
CI
CI
f9]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Spirit of Humility in Jesus'
Life and Ministry
1.
Humility of the Master foretold.
Zech. 9:9; Isa. 53:7.
2.
Extent of Christ's self-renunciation.
Phil. 2:5-8.
3.
Meek and lowly in heart.
Matt. 11:29.
4.
Jesus washes the disciples' feet.
John 13:1-11.
II. The Spirit of Christ Must Be Ours
5.
Christ's instruction for us.
John 13:12-15.
6.
James and Peter enjoin humility.
James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:5.
'. Walk humbly with God. Micah 6:8.
Ill. Bible Characters Who Illustrated
Humility
8.
Jacob, Gen. 32 :9-11 ; Saul, 1 Sam.
9:19-22 ; Solomon, 1 Kings 3 :7-9.
9.
The centurion, Matt. 8:5-10; the
Syrophoenician woman, Matt. 15:
22-28; John the Baptist, John
3 :27-31.
IV. Blessings Promised to the Humble
10.
Greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Matt. 5:5 ; 18:1-4.
11.
The humble will receive grace.
James 4:6.
12.
The humble will be exalted.
Luke 14:11; 1 Peter 5:6.
13.
A threefold blessing for the humble.
Prov. 22 :4.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"In consenting to become man, Christ
manifested a humility that is the marvel
of the heavenly intelligences. The act of
consenting to be a man would be no
humiliation were it not for the fact of
Christ's exalted preexistence. We must
open our understanding to realize that
Christ laid aside His royal robe, His kingly
crown, His high command, and clothed His
divinity with humanity, that He might
meet man where he was, and bring to the
human family moral power to become the
sons and daughters of God. To redeem
man, Christ became obedient unto death,
even the death of the cross."-Ellen G.
White,
Sons and Daughters of God,
page 81.
"The meekness and humility that char-
acterized the life of Christ will be made
manifest in the life and character of those
who 'walk even as He walked.'
"-Ibid.
The Spirit of Humility in Jesus' Life
and Ministry
1. What spirit was Jesus to mani-
fest, or possess? Zech. 9:9; Isa. 53:7.
Compare Matt. 21:1-11; 27:12-14.
2.
To what extent did Christ hum-
ble Himself? Phil. 2:5-8.
3.
What did Jesus say of Himself?
Matt. 11:29.
NOTE.
-"Jesus
places meekness among
the first qualifications for His kingdom. In
His own life and character the divine
beauty of this precious grace is revealed."
-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
page 14.
"Those who reveal the meek and lowly
spirit of Christ are tenderly regarded by
God. They may be looked upon with
scorn by the world, but they are of great
value in His sight."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 301.
"The meekness and lowliness of Christ is
the Christian's
power."-Testimonies,
Vol.
4, p. 559.
4.
What amazing example of hu-
mility does John record? John 13:1-11.
NOTE.-The humiliation of the Man
1
10
1
Christ Jesus is incomprehensible to the
human mind.
"The ordinance of feet washing most
forcibly illustrates the necessity of true
humility. While the disciples were con-
tending for the highest place, in the prom-
ised kingdom, Christ girded Himself, and
performed the office of a servant by wash-
ing the feet of those who called Him
Lord. . . .
"As Christ celebrated this ordinance
with His disciples, conviction came to the
hearts of all save Judas. So we shall be
convicted as Christ speaks to our hearts.
The fountains of the soul will be broken
up. The mind will be energized, and,
springing into activity and life, will break
down every barrier that has caused dis-
union and alienation."—Ellen G. White,
The Faith I Live By,
page 298.
The Spirit of Christ Must Be Ours
5.
As the Saviour washed the dis-
ciples' feet, what memorable words
did He utter? John 13:12-15.
NOTE.—"If humility, obedience, and self-
renunciation were the supreme character-
istics of the life of Jesus Christ, then they
must also be the hallmarks of the Chris-
tian, for the Christian must ever be as
his Lord. Christian greatness and Chris-
tian fellowship alike depend on the re-
nunciation of self, and are destroyed by
the exaltation of self. Selfishness, self-
seeking, and self-display destroy our like-
ness to Christ and our fellowship with each
other."—William Barclay,
The Letter to
the Philippians,
page 47.
6.
How do the apostles James and
Peter enjoin humility upon the saints
of God? James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:5.
to the perfection of Christian character.
God requires undeviating principle in the
minutest details of the transactions of
life."—Ibid.,
Vol. 4, p. 337.
7.
How does the prophet describe
what God requires of each one of us?
Micah 6:8.
NOTE.—"Humble thyself to walk with
thy God." Margin.
" 'To walk humbly with thy God' is to
live in harmony with the principles of the
first table of the Decalogue. . . . This is
Godward virtue."—S.D.A.
Bible Commen-
tary,
on Micah 6:8.
"Lowliness of heart is the strength that
gives victory to the followers of Christ;
it is the token of their connection with the
courts above."—The
Desire of Ages,
page
301.
Bible Characters
Who Illustrate Humility
8.
What examples of humility are
recorded in the Old Testament? Gen.
32:9-11; 1 Sam. 9:19-22; 1 Kings
3:7-9.
NOTE.—"Solomon was never so rick
,
or
so wise or so truly great as when he con-
fessed, 'I am but a little child: I know not
how to go out or come in.'
"—Prophets and
Kings,
page 30.
9.
What testimony is borne of the
centurion? of the Syrophoenician
woman? of John the Baptist? Matt.
8:5-10; 15:22-28; John 3:27-31.
NOTE.—"If its [the church's] members
follow Christ, they will deny the incli-
nation for display, the love of dress, the
love of elegant houses and costly furniture.
There must be far greater humility, a
much greater distinction from the world,
among Seventh-day Adventists, else God
will not accept
us."—Testimonies, Vol. 7,
p. 296.
"To walk humbly with God is essential
NOTE.—"Looking in faith to the Re-
deemer, John had risen to the height of
self-abnegation."—The
Desire of Ages,
page
179.
Blessings Promised to the Humble
10. Who did Jesus say would be
greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
Matt. 5:5; 18:1-4.
NOTE.—"Before honor is humility. To
fill a high place before men, Heaven
chooses the worker who . . . takes a lowly
place before God. The most childlike dis-
ciple is the most efficient in labor for
God."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 436.
11.
To whom is grace promised?
James 4:6.
NOTE.—"Because of God's love for His
people, fresh and fuller supplies of grace
are continually given. . . . Men who sin-
cerely pray for grace will be constantly
developing in Christian character. God
demands undivided allegiance, but He also
provides man with sufficient strength to
enable him to obey."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on James 4:6.
12.
Whom does God promise to
exalt? When? Luke 14:11; 1 Peter
5:6.
NOTE.—"As you humble yourselves under
the mighty hand of God, He will lift you
up. Commit your work to Him; labor in
faithfulness, in sincerity, in truth, and
you will find that each day's labor brings
its
reward."—Counsels to Parents, Teach-
ers, and Students,
page 235.
13.
What threefold blessing comes
by humility? Prov. 22:4.
Personal Appeal
Do I manifest a Christlike spirit of
humility?
Am I proud of my humility?
Do I feel superior to other people?
An essential part of the
Christian education of a
child is teaching him to
share.
Lesson 4, for October 22, 1966
The Spirit of Christian Courtesy
MEMORY VERSE:
"Finally,
be ye all of
one mind, having compassion one of
another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous." 1 Peter 3:8.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "Child Guidance," pages 143-145;
"The Adventist Home," pages 155, 156. For other Spirit of Prophecy com-
ments on "Courtesy" see "Index to the Writings of
E.
G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To understand the close relationship between the spirit of true
Christian courtesy and the effectiveness of our Christian witness.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Tuesday: Questions 5, 6; begin
reading study helps.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 7-9; read
further from study helps.
Thursday: Questions 10-13.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
[ 12 ]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. What is True Christian Courtesy?
1.
Golden rule in action. Matt. 7:12.
2.
Christian respect toward everyone.
Titus 3:2.
3.
Seeing the other person's point of
view. Phil. 2:4.
4.
Gracious speech. Col. 4:6.
II. Examples of Courtesy in the
Scriptures
5.
Abraham, Gen. 13:8, 9; Boaz,
Ruth 2:11-14; Abigail, 1 Sam. 25:
23-35.
6.
Paul, Acts 26:2-28; Julius, Acts
27:3; Publius, Acts 28:7.
Ill. Christ, Our Example in True
Courtesy
7.
Jesus courteous to the woman of
Samaria. John 4:5-29.
8.
Jesus courteous even toward. Pilate.
John 19:8-12.
9.
We should love as Jesus loved.
John 13:34.
V. Followers of Christ Will Reveal
the Spirit of the Master
10.
Love as brethren, be courteous.
1 Peter 3:8, 9.
11.
Kindly affectioned one to another.
Rom. 12:10.
12.
Courteous, careful words avert
trouble. Prov. 15:1.
13.
Courtesy needed in dealing with
the spiritually weak. Gal. 6:1.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"The religion of Christ never degrades
the receiver, never makes him coarse or
rough or uncourteous.
"There is much to do in order to fit us
for the courts of the Lord. The roughness
of spirit, the coarseness of speech, the
cheapness of character, must be put away,
or we can never wear the garment woven
in the heavenly loom,-the righteousness
of Christ."-Ellen G. White,
Sons and
Daughters of God,
page 315.
What is True Christian Courtesy?
1.
What is the essence of true cour-
tesy? Matt. 7:12.
NOTE.
-"Treat
other people exactly as
you would like to be treated by them-
this is the essence of all true religion."
Phillips.
"The cultivation of a uniform courtesy,
a willingness to do to others as we would
wish them to do to us, would annihilate
half the ills of
life."-Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 133.
2.
How does Paul's letter to Titus
describe the conduct of a Christian?
Titus 3:2.
NOTE.
-"Show
unqualified courtesy
toward everybody." The Amplified New
Testament.
"The heart where love reigns will be
guided to a gentle, courteous, compassion-
ate course of conduct toward others,
whether they suit our fancy or not,
whether they respect us or treat us
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, pp. 123, 124.
3.
How does true courtesy affect a
Christian's attitude toward others?
Phrt•1:
2:4.
NOTE.
-"Learn
to see things from other
people's point of view." Phillips.
"The Christian is always courteous. And
by association with his fellow workers, he
becomes more and more refined. He learns
to overlook little points of difference re-
garding questions that are of no vital
consequence. . . . He will not hesitate to
speak plainly and firmly when occasion
demands; but his every word and act
will be mingled with a courtesy so kindly,
so Christlike, that no offense can be taken.
Powerful is the influence for good that is
exercised by a consecrated, active Chris-
tian gentleman."-Special
Testimonies,
Se-
ries B, No. 11, pp. 13, 14.
[ 13 1
4.
What should characterize the
Christian's speech? Col. 4:6.
NOTE.—"Let your speech at all times
be gracious (pleasant and winsome)." The
Amplified New Testament.
Examples of Courtesy
in the Scriptures
5.
What examples of courtesy are
recorded in the Old Testament? Gen.
13:8, 9; Ruth 2:11-14; 1 Sam. 25:
23-35.
6.
Cite some New Testament ex-
amples of courtesy. Acts 26:2-28;
27:3; 28:7.
Christ, Our Example in True
Courtesy
7.
What did Christ's approach en-
able Him to do for a soul who needed
salvation? John 4:5-29.
NOTE.—"If we would humble ourselves
before God, and be kind and courteous,
. . . there would be one hundred conver-
sions to the truth where now there is only
one."—Testimonies,
Vol. 9, p. 189.
8.
How did Jesus manifest the
spirit of true courtesy toward Pilate?
With what results? John 19:8-12.
9.
How will Christians treat others?
John 13:34.
NOTE.—In this command the Saviour
set forth a new relationship that should
exist among believers and a new spirit that
believers should manifest toward those in
the world—a new spirit of love and Chris-
tian courtesy.
"A
thoroughgoing Christian draws his
motives
of action from his deep heart
love for his Master. Up through the roots
of his affection for Christ springs an un-
selfish interest in his brethren. Love im-
parts to its possessor grace, propriety, and
comeliness of deportment. It illuminates the
countenance and subdues the voice; it
refines and elevates the whole being."—
The Ministry of Healing,
page 490.
Followers of Christ Will Reveal
the Spirit of the Master
10.
What admonition does the
apostle Peter direct to the followers
of Christ? 1 Peter 3:8, 9.
'NOTE.—"Finally, all [of you] should be
of one
and
the same mind (united in
spirit), sympathizing [with one another],
loving [each the others' as brethren (of
one household), compassionate
and
cour-
teous—tenderhearted and humble minded.
Never return evil for evil or insult for
insult—scolding, tongue-lashing, berating;
but on the contrary blessing—praying for
their welfare, happiness and protection,
and truly pitying and loving them." The
Amplified New Testament.
Someone has said that we should treat
everyone with politeness, even those who
are rude to us; for remember that you
are courteous to others not because they
are gentlemen, but because you are one.
11.
What spirit will the Christian
manifest toward those with whom he
associates? Rom. 12:10.
NOTE.—"Let us have real warm affection
for one another as between brothers."
Phillips.
"You may be true to principle, you may
be just, honest, and religious; but with
it all you must cultivate true tenderness
of heart, kindness, and courtesy."—Testi-
monies to Ministers,
page 150.
12.
How will a courteous answer
frequently avert trouble? Prov. 15:1.
[ 14 ]
NoTE.—Recall instances in your own
experience when this has proved true.
13. How should the spirit of Christ
be revealed in our labor for others
who are in need of spiritual help?
Gal. 6:1.
spirit of Christian courtesy, they would
far more readily find access to the hearts
of the people; many more would be led
to examine and receive the
truth."—Coun-
sels to Parents, Teachers, and Students,
pages 93, 94.
Personal Appeal
NOTE.—"Restore
and
reinstate him,
without any sense of superiority
and
with
all gentleness." The Amplified New Testa-
ment.
"If all our people—teachers, ministers,
and lay members—would cultivate the
Am I uniformly courteous, even to those
who are not considerate of me?
Do I maintain thoughtful courtesies in
the home?
Do kind actions always follow the polite
words that I speak?
Lesson 5, for October 29, 1966
The Spirit of Self-Control
MEMORY VERSE: "Set
a watch, 0 Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my
lips." Ps.
141:3.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "My Life Today," pages 70, 78, 81, 83.
For other Spirit of Prophecy comments see "Self-control" in "Index to the
Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To learn the secret of greater self-control and Christ-control in our
daily lives.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1, 2; begin
reading study helps.
Tuesday: Questions 3-8.
Wednesday: Questions 9-11.
Thursday: Questions 12-14; finish
reading study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
El
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Christ's Example of Self-Control
1.
Christ's self-control foretold.
Isa. 53:7.
2.
Silent when accused by chief priests
and elders. Matt. 27:12.
II. Inspired Exhortations
3.
A city without walls.
Prov. 25:28.
4.
Vain religion. James 1:26.
5.
Body subject to the will. 1 Cor.
9:27.
6.
Self-control better than might.
Prov. 16:32.
[ 16 ]
7.
Keeping mouth means keeping life.
Prov. 13:3.
8.
Control leads to perfection.
James 3:2.
Ill. Help in Gaining the Victory
9.
Victory not in man's own self.
Jer. 10:23.
10.
Love, the secret of self-control.
John 13:35; Rom. 13:8-10.
11.
God's part in the victory. Heb.
8:10.
12.
We also have a part. 1 Peter 1:13.
13.
Self-control is Christ-control.
Gal. 2:20.
14.
Our prayer moment by moment.
Ps. 141:3; 19:14.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"The highest evidence of nobility in a
Christian is self-control. He who can
stand unmoved amid a storm of abuse is
one of God's heroes."-My
Life Today,
page 70.
"Strength of character consists of two
things-power of will and power of self-
control. Many youth .mistake strong, un-
controlled passion for strength of char-
acter; but the truth is that he who is
mastered by his passions is a weak man.
The real greatness and nobility of the man
is measured by his powers to subdue his
feelings, not by the power of his feelings to
subdue
him."-Child Guidance,
pages 161,
162.
"If we possess the humility of our Mas-
ter, we shall rise above the slights, the
rebuffs, the annoyances, to which we are
daily exposed, and they will cease to cast
a gloom over the spirit."-The
Desire of
Ages,
page 301.
Christ's Example of Self-Controi
1.
In what words did Isaiah fore-
tell Christ's spirit of self-control? Isa.
53:7.
2.
Describe Christ's example of self-
control when He was accused by the
chief priests and elders. Matt. 27:12.
NOTE.-"To
all the false charges against
Him He answered not a word. . . . He
stood unmoved by the fury of the waves
that beat about Him. . . . He stood silent,
but His silence was eloquence. It was as a
light shining from the inner to the outer
man."-The Desire of Ages,
page 726.
Inspired Exhortations
3.
To what does the wise man liken
a person without self-control? Prov.
25:28.
NOTE.
-"He
who under abuse or cruelty
fails to maintain a calm and trustful spirit
robs God of His right to reveal in him
His own perfection of character."-7'he
Desire of Ages,
page 301.
4.
How does James describe the
professed religion of a person who
has not learned self-control? James
1:26.
NoTE.-"His religion is useless." Phillips.
"Is worthless (futile, barren)." The Am-
plified New Testament.
5.
To what important principle did
the apostle Paul adhere? 1 Cor. 9:27.
NoTE.-"The body is the only medium
through which the mind and the soul are
developed for the upbuilding of charac-
ter. Hence it is that the adversary of
souls directs his temptations to the en-
feebling and degrading of the physical
powers. His success here means the sur-
render to evil of the whole being. The
tendencies of our physical nature, unless
[
16]
under the dominion of a higher power, will
surely work ruin and death."—My
Life
Today,
page 78.
6.
In God's sight how does the
person with self-control rank? Prov.
16:32.
NOTE.—"The man or Woman who pre-
serves the balance of the mind when
tempted to indulge passion, stands higher
in the sight of God and heavenly angels
than the most renowned general that ever
led an army to battle and to victory."—
My Life Today,
page 70. •
7.
What important principle should
all of us keep in mind? Proy. 13:3.
NOTE.—"The largest share of life's an-
noyances, its heartaches, its irritations, is
due to uncontrolled temper. In one mo-
ment, by hasty, passionate, careless words,
may be wrought evil that a whole life-
time's repentance cannot undo. Oh, the
hearts that are broken, the friends es-
tranged, the lives wrecked, by the harsh,
hasty words of those who might have
brought help and healing
!"—My Life To-
day,
page 81.
"In the use of language there is per-
haps no error that old and young are more
ready to pass over lightly in themselves
than hasty, impatient speech. They think
it is a sufficient excuse to plead, 'I was off
my guard, and did not really mean what
I said.' But God's Word does not treat it
lightly."—Ibid.
8.
What does James say of the
person who has his spirit well under
control? James 3:2.
NOTE.—"The greatest triumph given us
by the religion of Christ is control over
ourselves."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 235.
"If . . . [Christians" can remain calm
amid a tempest of inconsiderate, passionate
words, if they can rule their own spirits
when provoked and abused; they are in-
deed conquerors. . . . To subdue self, and
bring the passions under the control of the
will, is the greatest conquest that men
and women can achieve."—/bid., Vol. 3,
p. 183.
"You should keep off from Satan's en-
chanted ground and not allow your minds
to be swayed • from allegiance to God.
Through Christ you may .. . acquire habits
of self-control. Even your thoughts must
be brought into subjection to the will of
God and your feelings under the control
of reason and religion. . . . If the thoughts
are wrong the feelings will be wrong, and
the thoughts and feelings combined make
up the moral character. When you decide
that as Christians you are not required to
restrain your thoughts and feelings you
are brought under the influence of evil
angels and invite their presence and their
control. If you yield to your impressions
and allow your thoughts to run in a
channel of suspicion, doubt, and repining
you will be among the most unhappy of
mortals, and your lives will prove a fail-
ure."—Ibid.,
Vol. 5, p. 310.
"Man has been placed in a world of
sorrow, care, and perplexity. He is placed
here to be tested and proved, as were
Adam and Eve, that he may develop a .
right character and bring harmony out
of discord and confusion."—Ibid., p. 311.
Help in Gaining the Victory
9.
Why can we never gain the
mastery over self in our own strength?
Jer. 1M3.
NOTE.—"Human barriers against natural
and cultivated tendencies are but as the
sandbank against the torrent. Not until
the life of Christ becomes a vitalizing
power in our lives can we resist the temp-
tations that assail us from within and
from without. . . . By becoming one with
Christ, man is free. Subjection to the will
of Christ means restoration to perfect
manhood."—My
Life Today,
page 78.
10.
What is the real secret of mani-
festing self-control toward those
around us? John 13:35; Rom. 13:
8-10.
117]
NOTE.—"We must manifest the loving,
compassionate spirit of Christ. To love as
Christ loved means that we must practice
self-control."—My
Life Today,
page 80.
11.
What help is assured us in our
battle with self? Heb. 8:10.
NOTE.—"God's abounding love and
presence in the heart will give the power
of self-control and will mold and fashion
the mind and character. The grace of
Christ in the life will direct the aims and
purposes and capabilities into channels that
will give moral and spiritual power."—
My Life Today,
page 70.
12.
What is our part in maintain-
ing self-control? 1 Peter 1:13.
be words acceptable to Heaven and help-
ful to your associates."—My
Life Today,
page 83.
13.
What is the ultimate secret of
self-control? Gal. 2:20.
NOTE. "Let this life, so Stormy with
conflicts and worries, be brought into
connection with Christ, and then self will
no longer clamor for the supremacy."—
Son and Daughters of God,
page 142.
14.
What prayer might we offer
daily with great profit? Ps. 141:3;
19:14.
Personal Appeal
NOTE.—"We have each of us an indi-
vidual work to do. . . . The mind must
be firmly controlled to dwell upon sub-
jects that will strengthen the moral powers
. . . if the words of the mouth are to
Is Christ-control a reality in my life?
Do I excuse myself for losing my tem-
per on occasion?
Have I learned to be silent when nec-
essary?
Lesson 6, for November 5, 1966
The Spirit of Kindness
MEMORY VERSE:
"Be
ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one an-
other, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Eph. 4:32.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "My Life Today," pages 152, 196, 235.
For other Spirit of Prophecy comments see "Kindness" in "Index to the Writ-
ings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To gain inspiration to emulate the kindly spirit of Christ.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 9-12
;
memory verse.
read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Thursday: Questions 13, 14
;
finish
Tuesday: Questions 5-8.
reading study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
18
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Kindness Characterized Christ's
Earthly Ministry
1.
Christ's spirit of loving-kindness
foretold. Isa. 40:11.
2.
Prophecies of Christ's kindness
fulfilled.. Luke 7:11-13; Matt.
9:36; 14:14; 20:34.
3.
A bruised reed will He not break.
Isa. 42:3.
4.
Kindness shown the woman taken
in sin. John 8:3-11.
II. Kindness in the Lives of Believers
5.
Put on kindness. Col. 3:12.
6.
Kindness-linked with godliness.
2 Peter 1:7.
7. Be kind, tenderhearted, and for-
giving. Eph. 4:32.
8. Love is kind. 1 Cor. 13:4.
III. Kindness Cements Personal
Relationships
9. Kindly affectioned with love.
Rom. 12:10.
10. Gracious and full of compassion.
Ps. 112:4.
11. A word in season to the weary.
Isa. 50:4.
12. Kindness brings physical and
spiritual help. Prov. 16:24; Isa.
58:6-8.
IV. Examples of Kindness in the Bible
13. Joseph, Gen. 50:21; Moses, Ex.
2:17; David, 2 Sam. 9:1.
14. Good Samaritan, Luke 10:33-35;
Philippian jailer, Acts 16:33, 34;
Melita islanders, Acts 28:1, 2.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Let the tenderness and mercy that Jesus
has revealed in His own precious life be
an example to us of the manner in which
we should treat our fellow beings. . .
Many have fainted and become discouraged
in the great struggle of life, whom one
word of kindly cheer and courage would
have strengthened to overcome. . . . We
cannot tell how far-reaching may be our
tender words of kindness, our Christlike
efforts to lighten some burden. The erring
can be restored in no other way than in
the spirit of meekness, gentleness, and
tender love."-Ellen G. White,
My Life
Today,
page 235.
Kindness Characterized Christ's
Earthly Ministry
1. What spirit would characterize
the ministry of the coming Messiah?
Isa. 40:11.
NoTE.-"The solicitous care of Christ
for His people, providing for them and
protecting them from harm, is often com-
pared to the work of a gentle and faithful
shepherd in caring for his flock. . . . As a
shepherd gathers his lambs, carrying those
that are too feeble to walk, and driving the
ewes gently, . . . so Christ exercises every
possible care for His flock."-S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Isa. 40:11.
2.
Describe the fulfillment of
Isaiah's prophecies. Luke 7:11-13;
Matt. 9:36; 14:14; 20:34.
NOTE.
-"At
least eleven times the Gos-
pels speak of Jesus having compassion
upon the people. Our English word
com-
passion
comes from a Latin infinitive
meaning 'to bear.' Compassion is the
Christlike trait that draws out our hearts
to those in need and creates within us a
willingness to bear their burdens."-Robert
H. Pierson,
Give Us This Day,
page 291.
"Let me point you to the life of Christ,
to His compassion, His humility and love,
His inexpressible tenderness. You are to
copy His example."-Ellen G. White,
Sons
and Daughters of God,
page 148.
3.
By what figure is the kindness of
Christ further illustrated? Isa. 42:3.
[191
NOTE.—"Messiah will minister tenderly
to the weak, the bruised, and the oppressed.
He is a friend to the humble, contrite sin-
ner—to every man who finds himself in
need."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on
Isa. 42:3.
The Saviour found men bruised with
care, with pain, with grief, with suffering.
He did not break their spirit or their
hearts by adding more burdens.
4.
How did Jesus treat the woman
taken in sin? John 8:3-11.
NoTE.—The repentant woman had
enou0h to bear—she bore the burden of
guilt. Jesus would not add the burden
of condemnation. "A bruised reed" would
"He not break."
Kindnessin the Lives of Believers
5.
What Christian graces should
be found in the lives of believers?
Col. 3:12.
NOTE.—"This word [kindness] expresses
love in action (1 Cor. 13:4). It is de-
scriptive of gentle, gracious, kindly con-
sideration, both in disposition and action,
toward the needs of one's neighbor."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Col. 3:12.
6.
What important Christian grace
is closely i linked with kindliness?
2 Peter 1:7.
7.
What other Christian graces does
Paul associate with kindness? Eph.
4:32.
NOTE.—"Our word
kind
comes from the
Old English
kindred.
When we are kind
to others we treat them as we would our
kindred—our own flesh and blood. What
a wonderful world this would be in which
to live if we all treated everyone as we
treat those we truly love most. Such
treatment would be the most effective
evangelistic program every launched, and
it would result in the greatest ingathering
of souls the church has every experienced."
—Give Us This Day,
page 293.
8.
If love is in the heart, how will
it be manifested? 1 Cor. 13:4.
NOTE.—"Is
kind. . .
'To be considerate
and mild.' The word portrays the gracious
nature of one who is actuated by the
Spirit of God, one who is ever seeking
to reveal by word and deed an under-
standing sympathy for, and appreciation
of, the struggles and difficulties of others."
—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor.
13:4.
Kindness Cements Personal
Relationships
9.
What spirit should the Chris-
tian manifest toward those about
him? Rom. 12:10.
NOTE.—"Let us have real warm affection
for one another as between brothers."
Phillips. "Joined together in a brother-
hood of mutual love." Berkeley.
"Kindness makes a person gentle, ten-
derhearted affectionate, forgiving, cour-
teous. Kindness wishes well. It is never
harsh, offensive, discourteous, sour, or ill-
`•natured. Kindness wins friends for Christ
and influences people for His truth. Kind-
ness makes us like Jesus."—Give
Us This
Day,
page 293.
10.
What will be seen in the life
of the upright? Ps. 112:4.
NOTE —By reflecting the gracious spirit
of Jesus, we will be kind to others.
"The Lord is the light that arises in
the darkness unto them that are sincere
toward Him: He is 'the Sun of righ-
{
20
I
teousness' (Mal. 4:2). He is gracious and
full of compassion.. . . The righteous man
shares the divine attributes. He becomes
a partaker of the divine nature."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Ps. 112:4.
11. How does a kindly person
bring courage to a weary soul? Isa.
50:4.
NOTE.—"He who is a Christian will have
kind words for his relatives and associates.
He will be kind, courteous, loving, sym-
pathetic, and will be educating himself
for an abode with the family above. If
he is a member of the royal family, he
will represent the kingdom to which he is
going. He will speak with gentleness to
his children, for he will realize that they
too are heirs of God, members of the
heavenly court. Among the children of
God no spirit of harshness dwells.
"Some pride themselves on being out-
spoken, blunt, and rough, and they call
this frankness; but it is not rightly named,
it is selfishness of the deepest dye."—My
Life Today,
page 196.
12. How does kindness benefit both
giver and receiver? Prov. 16:24; Isa.
58:6-8.
NOTE.—"Kind, cheerful, encouraging
words will prove more effective than the
most healing medicines. These will bring
courage to the heart of the desponding and
discouraged, and the happiness and sun-
shine brought into the family by kind acts
and encouraging words will repay the
effort tenfold."—My
Life Today,
page 152.
Examples of Kindness in the Bible
13.
How was kindness revealed in
the life of Joseph? of Moses? of
David? Gen. 50:21; Ex. 2:17; 2 Sam.
9:1.
14.
What examples of kindness are
mentioned in the New Testament?
Luke 10:33-35; Acts 16:33, 34; 28:
1, 2.
Personal Appeal
How much like my Exemplar am I in
revealing the spirit of kindness?
Do I exemplify love in action?
Am I truly kind and gentle?
Lesson 7, for November 12, 1966
The Spirit of Self-Denial
MEMORY VERSE:
"Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after
Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." Matt. 16:24.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A.
Bible Commentary." For Spirit of Prophecy comments see
"Self-denial" in "Index to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To study and follow Christ's example in self-denial.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Tuesday: Questions 5.8.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions
9-12.
0
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
121]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Precept and Example of Jesus
1.
Jesus enjoyed no creature comforts.
Matt. 8:20.
2.
Jesus became poor that we might
become rich. 2 Cor. 8:9.
3.
Jesus called others to deny self.
Matt. 19:21.
4.
Jesus' spirit of self-denial led Him
to the cross. Matt. 26:39, 42;
27:42, 50.
II. Self-Denial-a Condition of
Christian Discipleship
5. Threefold condition of discipleship.
Matt. 16:24.
6. God may require all we have.
Luke 14:26, 33.
III. The Example of the Disciples
7. Matthew left all. Luke 5:27, 28;
Mark 1:16-20.
8. No reservations in accepting the •
call. Mark 10:28-30; Luke 22:.
27-30.
IV. Paul's Teaching on Self-Denial
9. Consider the interests of others
first. Phil. 2:4.
10. Please others rather than ourselves.
Rom. 15:1, 2.
11. Avoid yielding to carnal desires.
1 Cor. 9:27.
12. Complete dedication of life.
Phil. 3:5-8.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Everything must be viewed in the light
of the example of Christ. . . . Listen to
His words, copy His example in self-
denial and self-sacrifice."-Testimonies
to
Ministers,
page 419.
"Self-denial means to rule the spirit
when passion is seeking for the mastery;
to resist the temptation to censure and to
speak faultfinding words; . . . to stand at
the post of duty when others may fail; to
lift responsibilities wherever and whenever
you can, not for the purpose of applause,
not for policy, but for the sake of the
Master, who has given you a work to be
done with unwavering fidelity; when you
might praise yourself, to keep silent and
let other lips praise you. Self-denial is to
do good to others where inclination would
lead you to serve and please yourself."-
Testimonies,
Vol. 4,
p.
521.
Precept and Example of Jesus
1. What words of Jesus describe
the absence of creature comforts in
His life? Matt. 8:20.
NOTE.
-"Jesus worked to relieve every
case of suffering that He saw. He had
little money to give, but He often denied
Himself of food in order to relieve those
who appeared more needy than
He."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 87.
2.
What motive led the Saviour to
such sacrifice of material comforts?
2 Cor. 8:9.
NOTE.
-"Thus
it will ever be when the
Spirit of God takes possession of the life.
Those whose hearts are filled with the
love of Christ, will follow the example of
Him who for our sake became poor, that
through His poverty we might be made
rich. Money, time, influence-all the gifts
they have received from God's hand, they
will value only as a means of advancing
the work of the gospel."-The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 71.
3.
After the rich young ruler as-
sured Jesus that he had kept all of the
commandments, what further condi-
tion of perfection did the Saviour lay
down? Matt. 19:21.
NOTE.
-"In
a character otherwise lovable
(see Mark 10:21), one serious defect re-
mained-selfishness. Unless the blighting
[22
1
influence of selfishness were removed, the
rich young ruler could make no further
progress toward perfection. . . .
"Whatever a man loves more than he
loves Christ, makes him unworthy of
Christ. . . . A man must be ready to sell
`all that he hath.' But this, the rich young
ruler could not bring himself to do. Here
was his cross, but he refused to bear it"—
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on Matt. 19:21.
4.
To what length did Jesus' spirit
of self-denial lead Him? Matt. 26:39,
42; 27:42 (first part), 50.
NoTE.—"Had Jesus now saved Himself
He would have forfeited the power to
save others. The plan of salvation would
have been broken. Though they knew it
not, the Jewish leaders gave utterance
to a profound truth. Christ's refusal to
save Himself was the supreme demonstra-
tion of divine love (see John 15:13). It is
precisely because Jesus chose not to save
Himself at this moment that He can save
others."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
Matt. 27:42.
"Meet around the cross of Calvary in
self-sacrifice and self-denial. God will bless
you as you do your best. As you approach
the throne of grace, as you find yourself
bound to this throne by the golden chain
let down from heaven to earth to draw
men from the pit of sin, your heart will
go out in love for your brethren and
sisters who are without God and without
hope in the
world."—Testimonies,
Vol. 9,
p. 256.
Self-Denial—a Condition of
Christian Discipleship
5.
What threefold condition of dis-
cipleship did Jesus lay down? Which
of these did He place first? Matt.
16:24.
NOTE.—"Shall the world's Redeemer
practice self-denial and sacrifice on our
account, and the members of Christ's body
practiCe self-indulgence? Self-denial is an
essential condition of discipleship."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 3, p. 388.
"Brethren, for Christ's sake fill up your
lives with good works, even though the
world does not appreciate your efforts and
gives you no credit. This is self-denial."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 627.
"Deny himself.
That is, 'renounce him-
self,' submit his will to h
rist, henceforth
to live for Christ rather than for himself."
—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on Matt.
16:24.
6.
How does Jesus further describe
the possible cost a person must be
willing to pay in order to follow
Him? Luke 14:26, 33.
NOTE.—"In the Bible, 'to hate,' often
should be understood simply as a typical
Oriental hyperbole meaning 'to love less.'"
—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on Luke
14:26.
"Not 'will not,' but 'cannot.' Whoever
has personal interests that take precedence
over loyalty to Christ and devotion to
His service will find it impossible to meet
the requirements Christ makes of him. At
all times and under all circumstances the
call of the kingdom must take precedence.
The service of Jesus calls for the entire
and permanent renunciation of
self."—Ibid.
The Example of the Disciples
7.
How fully did certain disciples
respond to. the Saviour's invitation
to follow Him? Luke 5:27, 28; Mark
1:16-20.
NOTE.—"Matthew 'left all, rose up, and
followed Him.' There was no hesitation, nb
questioning, no thought of the lucrative
business to be exchanged for poverty and
hardship. It was enough for him that he
was to be with Jesus, that he might listen
to His words, and unite with Him in His
work."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 273.
8.
What reservations did the dis-
ciples make in accepting Jesus' call
to discipleship? What were the dis-
ciples promised in return? Mark 10:
28-30; Luke 22:27-30.
[ 23 ]
NOTE.—"What a promise is here made
upon condition of obedience! . . . If you
make the sacrifice, if you have to forsake
father, mother, sisters, brothers, wife, and
children for Christ's sake, you will not be
friendless. God adopts you into His fam-
ily; you become members Of the royal
household, sons and daughters of the King
who rules in the heaven of heavens. Can
you desire a more exalted position than is
here promised? Is not this enough?"—
Testimonies, Vol.
1, p. 510.
"We are never called upon to make a
real sacrifice for God. Many things He
asks us to yield to Him, but in doing this
we are but giving up that which hinders
us in the heavenward way. Even when
called upon to surrender those things which
in themselves are good, we may be sure
that Gcd is thus working out for us some
higher good."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages 473, 474.
Paul's Teaching on Self-Denial
9.
What guiding principle should
the Christian ever seek to follow in
his relationship with others? Phil.
2:4. Compare 1 Cor. 10:24.
10.
How did Paul emphasize, in his
letter to the Romans, the Christian's
duty to live unselfishly? Rom. 15:1, 2.
11.
How all-important did the apos-
tle feel the principle of self-denial to
be in his own life? 1 Cor. 9:27.
NOTE.—"The warfare against self is the
greatest battle that was ever fought. The
yielding of self, surrendering all to the
will of God, requires a struggle; but the
soul must submit to God before it can
be renewed in holiness."—Steps
to Christ,
page 43.
12.
What worthy example of dedi-
cation to the work of God has Paul
left for Christians of all ages? Phil.
3:5-8.
NOTE.—"The position you must come
into is to value salvation clearer than
earthly gain, to count everything but loss
that you may win Christ. The consecration
on your part must be entire. God will
admit of no reserve, of no divided sacri-
fice; you can cherish no idol. You must die
to self and to the world. Renew your
consecration to God daily. Everlasting life
is worth a lifelong, persevering, untiring
effort."—Testimonies,
Vol.
2,
p. 49.
Personal Appeal
What have I given up for my Saviour
this week?
What do I know personally of self-
denial?
Have I met the conditions of discipleship
laid down by Jesus?
Lesson 8, for November 19, 1966
The Spirit of Zealous Service
MEMORY VERSE:
"Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that
sent Me, and to finish His work." John 4:34.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A.
Bible Commentary"; "Steps to Christ," chapter, "The Work
and the Life." For other Spirit of Prophecy comments see "Service," "Zeal,"
and "Soul winning" in "Index to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To study and follow Christ's example in service for others.
[24
1
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Tuesday: Questions 5-8.
Wednesday: Questions 9-13.
Thursday: .Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Christ's Spirit of Service
1.
David and Isaiah foretell Christ's
zeal in service. Ps. 69:9; Isa. 59:17.
2.
Christ's all-consuming passion.
John 4:34.
3.
Christ felt the urgency of the work.
John 9:4.
4.
Peter describes Christ's spirit of
service. Acts 10:38.
II. Saved to Serve
5.
Job's practical service.
Job
29:
15, 16.
6.
Always abounding in the work.
1 Cor. 15:58.
7. God's people shall be willing.
Ps. 110:3, first part.
8. Responsibility proportionate to
talents received. Matt. 25:14-29.
III. Paul's BOrden for the Lost
9. Paul's burden, similar to that of
Moses. Rom. 10:1; 9:3; Ex. 32:32.
10. Night and day with tears.
Acts 20:31.
IV. Witnessing
for Him
11. Christ's challenge to service.
John 4:35.
12. Tell what God has done for you.
Luke 8:39, first part.
13. Working wisely and earnestly.
1 Cor. 9:19-22.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Christ gave no stinted service. He did
not measure His work by hours. His time,
His heart, His soul and strength, were
given to labor for the benefit of human-
ity. Through weary days He toiled, and
through long nights He bent in prayer for
grace and endurance that He might do a
larger work. With strong crying and tears
He sent His petitions to heaven, that His
human nature might be strengthened, that
He might be braced to meet the wily foe
in all his deceptive workings, and forti-
fied to fulfill His mission of uplifting
humanity. To His workers He says, 'I
have given you an example, that ye should
do as I have done.' John
13:15."-The
Ministry of Healing,
page 500.
Christ's Spirit of Service
1. How was Christ's zeal for His
Father's work foretold? Ps. 69:9;
Isa. 59:17. Compare John 2:17.
2.
How did Jesus describe the bur-
den He carried for a finished work?
John 4:34.
NOTE.
-"The
eager response of the
woman was more refreshing to the soul
of Jesus than food would have been to
His body."-S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
John 4:32.
"Jesus lived for the one purpose of
doing His Father's will. . . The material
requirements of life were incidental to
His great objective of accomplishing man's
salvation."-Ibid., on John 4:34.
3.
In what words did Jesus empha-
size the urgency of His work? John
9:4.
[ 25 ]
NoTE.—"Many feel that it would be a
great privilege to visit the scenes of Christ's
life on earth, to walk where He trod, to
look upon the lake beside which He loved
to teach, and the hills and valleys on
which His eyes so often rested. But we
need not go to Nazareth, to Capernaum,
or to Bethany, in order to walk in the
steps of Jesus. We shall find His foot-
prints beside the sickbed, in the hovels
of poverty, in the crowded alleys of the
great city, and in every place where there
are human hearts in need of consolation.
In doing as Jesus did when on earth, we
shall walk in His steps."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 640.
4.
In his sermon to the Gentiles at
Caesarea, how did Peter refer to
Christ's spirit of service? Acts 10:38.
NoTE.—"When the Son of God humbled
Himself at the incarnation, He laid aside
the independent exercise of His attributes
as the second person of the Godhead. . . .
For all that He accomplished on earth He
relied, as must other men, on power from
above.
"The life of Jesus exhibits a consistent
example of dedication to the service of
mankind."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
Acts 10:38.
Saved to Serve
5.
In what practical manner did
Job serve the Lord? Job 29:15, 16.
"The Lord desigtis that the
means entrusted to us shall'
be used in building up His
kingdom."—Counsels on
Stewardship,
page 35.
NOTE.—
Christ has no hands but our hands
To do His work today;
He has no feet but our feet
TO lead men in His way;
He has no tongue but our tongues
To tell men how He died;
He has no help but our help
To bring them to His side.
—Annie Johnson Flint.*
(*Copyright. Reproduced by permission.
Evangelical Publishers, Toronto, Canada.)
6.
How did Paul admonish the
church at Corinth to be zealous in
the Lord's service? 1 Cor. 15:58.
NOTE.—"Always being superior (excel-
ling, doing more than enough) in the ser-
vice of the Lord, knowing
and
being
continually aware that your labor in the
Lord is not futile—never wasted or to no
purpose." The Amplified New Testament.
"The great incentive to continual ac-
tivity in the cause of truth is the positive
assurance that such efforts will not be
`in vain in the Lord,' but will result in
the salvation of souls and the advance-
ment of the glory of God."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 15:58.
7.
What spirit should characterize
our service for God? Ps. 110:3, first
part. Compare Judges 5:2; Neh. 11:2.
NOTE.—"It is a fatal mistake to suppose
that the work of soul saving depends
alone upon the ministry. The humble
consecrated believer upon whom the Mas-
ter of the vineyard places a burden for
souls is to be given encouragement by the
men upon whom the Lord has laid larger
responsibilities. Those who stand as lead-
ers in the church of God are to realize
that the Saviour's commission is given to
all who believe in His name. God will
send forth into His vineyard many who
1
26
1
have not been dedicated to the ministry
by the laying on of hands."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
page 110.
8.
How does the Lord measure our
responsibility in His service? Matt.
25:14-29.
NOTE.—"We shall individually be held
responsible for doing one jot less than we
have ability to do. The Lord measures
with exactness every possibility for service.
The unused capabilities are , as much
brought into account as are those that
are improved."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 363.
Paul's Burden for the Lost
9.
How does Paul's burden for his
people compare with that of Moses?
Rom. 10:1; 9:3; Ex. 32:32.
NOTE.—"All things in Paul's life were
made subject to his great objective of
preaching the gospel and winning souls for
Christ. He was prepared to be of no ac-
count if by so doing some might be drawn
to the Lord. . . . The apostle's laudable
ambition was that he should be used by
the Holy Spirit to lead the greatest num-
ber possible to accept salvation from sin
through Christ. This is the ambition of
every true minister of the gospel."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 9:19.
10.
How earnestly did the apostle
labor for souls? Acts 20:31. Compare
Gal. 4:19.
NOTE.—"Paul sometimes worked night
and day, not only for his own support,
but that he might assist his fellow laborers.
He shared his earnings with Luke, and he
helped Timothy. He even suffered hunger
at times, that he might relieve the neces-
sities of others. His was an unselfish
life."—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 352.
Witnessing for Him
11.
How does Jesus challenge our
spirit of service? John 4:35.
NOTE.—"Not one in a hundred among
us is doing anything beyond engaging in
common, worldly enterprises. We are not
half awake to the worth of the souls for
whom Christ
died."—Testimonies,
Vol. 8,
p. 148.
12.
What is the least anyone can
do for his Lord? Luke 8:39, first part.
NoTE.—"Recount [the story] through-
out of how many
and
great things God has
done for you." The Amplified New Testa-
ment.
13.
How wisely and earnestly are
we to work for souls? 1 Cor. 9:19-22.
NOTE.—"Made
myself servant.
Literally,
`enslaved myself.' Paul was willing to labor
for others, as a slave does without reward
or pay, to advance their welfare. Like a
slave, wishing to please his master, or
because he is forced to do so, he was willing
to comply with the habits, customs, and
opinions of others as far as possible, with-
out compromising principle. God's min-
isters must be ready at all tines to adapt
themselves and their ministry to the nature
of those for whom they labor."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 9:19.
Personal Appeal
Am I one of God's
willing
workers, or
do I have to be coaxed and pleaded with
when there is church work to be done?
How long has it been since I have won
a soul for the Lord?
If all church members followed my ex-
ample in devotion and service, how long
would it take to finish God's work in the
world?
[ 27
Lesson 9, for November 26, 1966
The Spirit of Prayer
MEMORY VERSE:
"And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and
ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." Luke 11:9.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "Gospel Workers," pages 255, 256;
"The Desire of Ages," pages 111-113, 685-697; "Steps to Christ," chapter,
"The Privilege of Prayer." For other Spirit of Prophecy comments see
"Prayer" in the "Index to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To develop greater faithfulness in a personal prayer life.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-3.
Tuesday: Questions 4-8.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 9-11; begin
reading study helps.
Thursday: Questions 12-14; finish
reading study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Christ's Spirit of Prayer and Devotion
1.
He was never too busy to pray.
Mark 6:44-47; Luke 5:15, 16.
2.
He prayed publicly. Luke 3:21,
22; Matt. 11:23-26;
John
11:41-43.
3.
Examples of intercessory prayer.
Luke 22:32; John 17:22-26.
II. In the Hour of Decision or Crisis
Jesus Prayed
4.
He prayed before selecting disciples.
Luke 6:12, 13.
5.
He prayed when offered kingship.
John 6:14, 15; Matt. 14:22, 23.
6. He prayed at the transfiguration.
Luke 9:28-36.
7.
He prayed in Gethsemane.
Luke 22:39-46.
8. He prayed on the cross.
'
Luke 23:33, 34.
III. Christ Reveals the Conditions of
Answered Prayer
9. We must ask. John 16:24; Luke
11:5-9.
10. We must believe. Mark 11:22-24.
11. We must abide in Christ.
John 15:7.
IV. Exhortations to Earnest Prayer
12. Watch and pray. Matt. 26:40, 41.
13. Persevere in prayer. Luke 18:1-8.
14. Never stop praying. 1 Thess. 5:17.
THE LESSON.
Introduction
"Christ our Saviour . . . had bodily
wants to be supplied, bodily weariness to
be relieved. It was by prayer to His Fa-
ther that He was braced for duty and for
trial. Day by day He followed His round
of duty, seeking to save souls. His heart
went out in tender sympathy for the
weary and heavy-laden. And He spent
whole nights in prayer in• behalf of the
tempted ones. . . .
"The Christian is given the invitation
to carry his burdens to God in prayer,
and to fasten himself closely to Christ
by the cords of living faith."-Ellen G.
White,
Our High Calling,
page 127.
[ 28
Christ's Spirit of Prayer and
Devotion
1.
Name instances in which Jesus
did not permit a busy program to
crowd out His prayer appointments.
Mark 6:44-47; Luke 5:15, 16.
NoTE.—"While we are to labor earnestly
for the salvation of the lost, we must
also take time for meditation, for prayer,
and for the study of the Word of God.
Only the work accomplished with much
prayer, and sanctified by the meeit of
Christ, will in the end prove to have been
efficient for good.
"No other life was ever so crowded with
labor and responsibility as was that of
Jesus; yet how often He was found in
prayer ! How constant was His communion
with God! . . .
"In a life wholly devoted to the good
of others, the Saviour found it necessary
to withdraw from the thoroughfares of
travel and from the throng that followed
Him day after clay. He must turn aside
from a life of ceaseless activity and con-
tact with human needs, to seek retirement
and unbroken communion with His Fa-
ther."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 362,
363.
2.
Under what circumstances did
Jesus pray in public? Luke 3:21, 22;
Matt. 11:23-26; john 11:41-43.
3.
Cite examples of intercessory
prayer offered by Jesus. Luke 22:32;
John 17:22-26.
In the Hour of-Decision or Crisis
Jesus Prayed
4.
How long did Jesus pray before
He chose twelve disciples to be His
closest associates? Luke 6:12, 13.
NOTE.—"Often Jesus devoted an entire
night to prayer. . . . Usually such instances
mentioned by the various gospel writers
preceded points of decision or crisis in the
Saviour's life or ministry."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Mark 3:13.
"The Saviour knew the character of the
men whom He had chosen; all their
weaknesses and errors were open before
Him ; He knew the perils through which
they must pass, the
-
responsibility that
would rest upon them; and His heart
yearned over these chosen ones. Alone
upon a mountain near the Sea of Galilee
He spent the entire night in prayer for
them, while they were sleeping at the foot
of the mountain."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 291, 292.
5.
When tempted with an urgent
offer of kingship, what did Jesus do?
John 6:14, 15; Matt. 14:22, 23.
6.
Describe the prayer meeting on
the mount of transfiguration. Luke
9:28-36.
7.
How did the Saviour prepare for
the ordeal of Calvary? Luke 22:39-46.
NOTE.—"Three times has He uttered that
prayer. Three times has humanity shrunk
from the last, crowning sacrifice. But now
the history of the. human race comes• up
before the world's Redeemer. He sees that
the transgressors of the law, if left to them-
selves, must perish. He sees the helpless-
ness of man. He sees the power of sin.
The woes and lamentations of a doomed
world rise before Him. He beholds
its impending fate, and His decision is
made. He will save man at any cost to
Himself. . . . He will become the propitia-
tion of a race that has willed to sin. His
prayer now breathes only submission: 'If
this cup may not pass away from Me, ex-
cept I drink it, Thy will be done.'
"—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 690, 693.
[ 29
1
8.
Even while enduring the agony
of the cross, what did Jesus do? Luke
23:33, 34.
NOTE.—"That prayer of Christ for His
enemies embraced the world. It took in
every sinner that had lived or should live,
from the beginning of the world to the
end of time. Upon all rests the guilt of
crucifying the Son of God. To all, for-
giveness is freely offered. 'Whosoever will'
may have peace with God, and inherit
eternal life."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 745.
Christ Reveals the Conditions of
Answered Prayer
9.
Before we receive, what must
we do? John 16:24; Luke 11:5-9.
Compare James 4:2, last part.
NOTE.—"Ask
and
keep on asking and
you will receive." John 16:24, The Ampli-
fied New Testament.
"We must have help which God alone
can give, and that help will not come un-
asked. . : .
"I have been shown angels of God all
ready to impart grace and power to those
who feel their need of divine strength.
But these heavenly messengers will not
bestow blessings unless solicited."—Our
High Calling,
page 129.
"Those who are unwilling to deny self,
to agonize before God, to pray long and
earnestly for His blessing, will not obtain
it. Wrestling with God—how few know
what it is
!"—The Great Controversy,
page
621.
10.
What prerequisite of answered
prayer does Jesus set forth? Mark
11:22-24.
NOTE.—"Jesus Himself never moved lit-
eral mountains, nor did He intend His
followers to contemplate any necessity of
doing so themselves. Jesus here is speak-
ing of figurative mountains of difficulty."
—S. D. A. Bible Commentary,
on Mark
11:23.
11.
What continuing experience is
essential to a successful prayer life?
John 15:7.
NOTE.—"You are just as dependent
upon Christ, in order to live a holy life,
as is the branch upon the parent stock
for growth and fruitfulness. Apart from
Him you have no life. You have no power
to resist temptation or to grow in grace
and holiness. Abiding in Him, you may
flourish. Drawing your life from Him, you
will not wither nor be fruitless. You will
be like a tree planted by the rivers of
water."—Steps to Christ,
page 69.
Exhortations to Earnest Prayer
12.
What earnest admonition did
Jesus give the disciples when He
found them asleep in Gethsemane?
Matt. 26:40, 41.
NOTE.—"Christians are not to await their
Lord's return in idle expectancy. While
waiting and watching they are to be vigi-
lant in purifying their own souls by
obedience to the truth, and to be earnest
in working for others. It is their privilege
`not only to look for but to hasten the
coming of the day of God.'
"—S.D.A. Bible
Commentary,
on Matt. 24:42.
13.
What did Jesus emphasize as
a necessity in the matter of prayer?
Luke 18:1-8.
NOTE.—t`Our prayers are to be as earnest
and persi
s
tent as was the petition of the
needy friend who asked for the loaves at
midnight. The more earnestly and stead-
fastly we ask, the closer will be our
spiritual union with Christ. We shall re-
ceive increased blessings because we have
increased
faith."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 146.
"Your petitions must not be faint, oc-
casional, and fitful, but earnest, persever-
ing, and constant."—The
Ministry of Heal-
ing,
page 510.
20
14. What good counsel does Paul
are walking, and when you are busy with
your daily labor."--/bid., pp. 510, 511.
Personal Appeal
How much of Jesus' spirit of prayer is
found in my life?
Do I pray or do I just "say my
prayers"?
Do I let go of the arm of the Lord too
soon?
Lesson 10, for December 3, 1966
The Spirit of Courage
MEMORY VERSE:
"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am
thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee
with the right hand of My righteousness." Isa. 41:10.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "Gospel Workers," pages 264-268;
"Testimonies," Vol. 7, pp. 210-214. For other Spirit of Prophecy comments
see "Courage" in the "Index to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM: To
develop Christlike courage for present and future needs.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
Wednesday: Questions 7-11.
memory verse.
Thursday: Questions 12-14; finish
Monday: Questions 1, 2
;
begin
reading study helps.
reading study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Tuesday: Questions 3-6.
give the child of God? 1 Thess. 5:17.
NOTE.—"Let every breath be a prayer."
—The Ministry of Healing,
page 511.
"Cultivate the habit of talking with
the Saviour when you are alone, when you
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Courage of Jesus
1.
Isaiah foretells Jesus' courageous
spirit. Isa. 42:4.
2.
Jesus' courage in face of danger.
Luke 13:31-33.
II. Exhortations to Courage
3.
Courage and endurance needed in
last days. Matt. 24:12, 13.
4.
God speaks courage to His people.
Deut. 31:6; Joshua 1:7, 9.
5.
Anticipation of final deliverance.
Isa. 35:4.
6.
Source of our strength and
courage. 2 Tim. 2:1.
[31
1
III. Bible Illustrations of Courage
7.
Unusual courage in Jehoshaphat's
day. 2 Chron. 20:20-23.
8.
Nehemiah's courage in rebuilding
the wall of Jerusalem. Neh. 4:
16-18; 6:10, 11.
9.
With courage, Peter and John
faced difficulty. Acts 4:18, 19,
31-33.
10.
Paul's courage at Philippi.
1 Thess. 2:2.
11.
Brethren encourage Paul. Acts
28:14, 15.
IV. Promises That Inspire Courage
12.
God's blessed promise of help.
Heb. 13:5, 6.
13.
Words of assurance to God's
people. Isa. 41:10.
14.
Precious promises through the
psalmist. Ps. 27:14.
THE LESSON
NOTE.—"Apparently
the Pharisees used
this device in an attempt to frighten
Jesus out of Peraea into Judea, where they
could lay hands on Him themselves. For
nearly two years the Jewish leaders had
been plotting His death (see DA 213, 401;
John 11:53, 54, 57 . . .), and the Jews had
recently tried twice to stone
Him."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Luke 13:31.
Exhortations to Courage
3. In a time of widespread wicked-
ness, what spirit should characteri
believers? Matt. 24:12, 13.
Introduction
"Talk courage, talk faith, talk hope. My
brother and sister in the Lord, be of good
courage. 0, how little we know what is
before us! We will give ourselves en-
tirely to Jesus, to be wholly His, and
then say, 'Not my will, but Thy will, 0
God, be done.' . . . You have the tender
love and compassion of your Saviour.
Look to Him always. Trust in Him con-
tinually, and doubt not His love. He
knows all our weakness and that which
we need. He will give us grace sufficient
for our day. Only look to Jesus continually,
and be of good courage."—Ellen G. White,
Sons and Daughters of God,
page 191.
The Courage of Jesus
1.
In what words did the prophet
Isaiah foretell the courageous spirit
of Jesus? Isa. 42:4.
NOTE.—"He
will not fail or become
weak, or be crushed
and
discouraged."
The Amplified Old Testament.
"Day by day He met trials and temp-
tations; day by day He was brought into
contact with evil and witnessed its power
upon those whom He was seeking to bless
and to save. Yet He did not fail or be-
come discouraged."—The
Ministry of Heal-
ing,
pages 18, 19.
2.
How did Jesus display courage
in the face of Herod's threats? Luke
13:31-33.
NOTE.—"Christ's
forecast met its first
fulfillment in the decades prior to the
fall of Jerusalem in
A.D.
70 (DA 633; cf.
36, 37). The prophecy will again be ful-
filled in the last days (2 Tim. 3:1-5; cf.
5T 136,
741)."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on Matt. 24:12.
"The day of the Lord is approaching
with stealthy tread; but the supposed
great and wise men know not the signs of
Christ's coming or of the end of the world.
Iniquity abounds, and the love of many
has waxed cold.
"There are thousands upon thousands,
millions upon millions, who are now mak-
ing their decision for eternal life or eternal
death."—Testimonies,
Vol. 6, p. 406.
4. On what two occasions did the
Lord speak a message of encourage-
ment to Israel? Deut. 31:6; Joshua
1:7, 9.
[ 32 ]
5.
In anticipation of final deliver-
ance from the power of sin, what
inspired words of hope and courage
does Isaiah speak to God's people?
Isa. 35:4.
NOTE.—"Christian life is more than many
take it to be. It does not consist wholly in
gentleness, patience, meekness, and kindli-
ness. These graces arc essential; but there
is need also of courage, force, energy, and
perseverance. The path that Christ marks
out is a narrow, self-denying path. To enter
that path and press on through difficulties
and discouragements requires men who are
more than weaklings."—The
Ministry of
Healing,
page 497.
6.
Where is the source of our
strength and courage? 2 Tim. 2:1.
NOTE.—"However courageous and suc-
cessful a man may be in the performance
of a special work, unless he looks con-
stantly to God when circumstances arise
to test his faith he will lose his courage.
Even after God has given him marked
tokens of His power, after he has been
strengthened to do God's work, he will fail
unless he trusts implicitly in Omnipotence."
—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible
Commentary,
Vol. 2,
p.
1035.
Bible Illustrations of Courage
7.
How did God honor an unusual
manifestation of courage on the part
of His people in Jehoshaphat's day?
2 Chron. 20:20-23.
NOTE.—"They praised God for the vic-
tory, and four days thereafter the army
returned to Jerusalem, laden with the
spoils of their enemies, singing praises for
the victory won.
"Do you not think that if more of this
were done now, our hope and courage and
faith would be revived? Would not the
hands of the soldiers who are standing in
defense of the truth be strengthened? If
there were much more praising the Lord,
and far less doleful recitation of discourage-
ment, many more victories would be
gained."—Sons
and Daughters of God,
page
199.
8.
What commendable display of
valor characterized the work of Ne-
hemiah and his followers in rebuild-
ing the wall of Jerusalem? Neh. 4:
16-18;. 6:10, 11.
NOTE.—"Nehemiah showed himself to be
a man whom God could use to put down
false principles and to restore heaven-born
principles; and God honored him. The
Lord will use in His work men who are
as true as steel to principle, who will not
be swayed by the sophistries of those who
have lost their spiritual eyesight."—Sons
and Daughters of God,
page 213.
9.
Under what circumstances did
Peter and John deport themselves
with unusual fortitude? With what
results? Acts 4:18, 19, 31-33.
10.
What splendid example of
courage did Paul and his companion
leave for all who would serve the
Lord under trying circumstances in
later years? 1 Thess. 2:2.
NOTE.—"We are handicapped on all sides,
but we are never frustrated; we are puz-
zled, but never in despair. We are per-
secuted, but we never have to stand it
alone: we may be knocked down but we
are never knocked out!" 2 Cor. 4:8, 9,
Phillips.
The attempted separation of
the gospel of grace from
the gospel of giving is the
tragedy of modern church
life.
f33
1
11.
What encouragement came to
Paul on his trying journey to Rome?
Acts 28:14, 15.
Promises That Inspire Courage
12.
What blessed promise has the
Lord given that would enable the
child of God to face the future with-
out fear? Heb. 13:5 (last part), 6.
NOTE.—"God will honor and uphold
every truehearted, earnest soul who is
seeking to walk before Him in the perfec-
tion of Christ's grace. He will never leave
nor forsake one humble, trembling soul."—
Sons and Daughters of God,
page 192.
"Divine strength is ours; and let us
talk courage and strength and faith."—
Testimonies to Ministers,
page 391.
"In the darkest days, when appearances
seem most forbidding, have faith in God.
He is working out His will, doing all
things well in behalf of His people. The
strength of those who love and serve Him
will be renewed day by
day."—The Min-
istry of Healing,
page 482.
13.
What reassuring words did
God speak in Isaiah's day that will
bring strength to the church ur til
the close of time? Isa. 41:10.
NOTE.—"There is to be no despondency
in God's service. Our faith is to endure the
pressure brought to bear upon it. God is
able and willing to bestow upon His ser-
vants all the strength they need. He will
more than fulfill the highest expectations
of those who put their trust in Him."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 8, p. 11.
14.
How does the psalmist seek to
encourage and inspire the hearts of
God's people? Ps. 27:14. Compare
Ps. 29:11; 31:24.
NoTE.—"Let us not be discouraged. Let
us not talk doubt, but faith; for faith
brings infinite power. If we lay hold upon
this power, and do not trust in our own
human strength, we shall see the salvation
of
God."—Selected Messages,
Bk. 1, p. 85.
Personal t.•opeal
Am I easily discouraged when even lit-
tle things go wrong?
Am I keeping in close enough contact
with my source of courage?
Is my present experience preparing me
to stand courageously during the time of
trouble ahead?
Lesson 11, for December 10, 1966
The Spirit of Giving
MEMORY VERSE:
"He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and
he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according
as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity:
for God loveth a cheerful giver." 2 Cor.
9:6, 7.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"
;
"The Desire of Ages," chapter, "God
With Us." For further Spirit of Prophecy comments see "Gifts" and "Giving"
in "Index to the Writings of
E.
G. White."
-STUDY AIM:
To see the greatness of the gifts of Heaven to mankind, and to
give more of ourselves and our means to help finish God's work on earth.
[34
1
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND
RECORD
Check
Here
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-5.
Tuesday: Questions 6, 7; begin
reading study helps.
Wednesday: Questions 8-12.
0
Thursday: Questions 13, 14; finish
reading study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Spirit of Divine Giving
1.
God's love gift to a sinful world.
John 3:16.
2.
Christ's part in the divine gift.
Eph. 5:2, 25.
3.
The measure of Christ's gift to the
world. Gal. 1:4; Isa. 50:6; 53:5.
4.
The Holy Spirit, a gift and a Giver
of gifts. John 14:16, 26; Acts 1:8.
5.
The angels as ministering spirits
delight to give. Heb. 1:14.
II. The Spirit of Giving in the Scriptures
6. Israel gave willingly and abun-
dantly. Ex. 35:22; 36:5, 6.
7. Two illustrations of sacrificial
giving in the New Testament.
Luke 21:1-4; Acts 4:34, 35.
III. Inspired Guide in Christian Giving
8. Give according to our income.
Deut. 16:17.
9. Give cheerfully. 2 Cor. 9:7.
10. Give freely. Matt. 10:8, last part.
11. Give systematically. 1 Cor. 16:1, 2.
12. Give without ostentation. Matt.
6:3, 4.
IV. Promises to the Faithful Giver
13. "Give, and it shall be given unto
you." Luke 6:38.
14. Wonderful blessings of benevolence.
2 Cor. 9:8-15.
THE LESSON
NOTE.
-"Tongue
cannot utter it; pen
cannot portray it. You may meditate upon
it every day of your life; you may search
the Scriptures diligently in order to un-
derstand it; you may summon every power
and capability that God has given you, in
the endeavor to comprehend the love and
compassion of the heavenly Father; and
yet there is an infinity
beyond."-Testi-
monies,
Vol. 5, p. 740.
Introduction
"If God's people had the love of Christ
in the heart; if every church member were
thoroughly imbued with the spirit of self-
denial; if all manifested thorough earnest-
ness, there would be no lack of funds for
home and foreign missions; our resources
would be multiplied; a thousand doors of
usefulness would be opened, and we would
be invited to enter. Had the purpose of
God been carried out by His people in
giving the message of mercy to the world,
Christ would have come to the earth, and
the saints would ere this have received
their welcome into the City of God."-
Selected Messages,
Bk. 1, p. 82.
The Spirit of Divine Giving
1. What greatest of all love gifts did
God make to the world? John 3:16.
2.
What was Christ's part in the
greatest of all gifts? Eph. 5:2, 25.
3.
What was the measure of
Christ's gift to a lost world? Gal. 1:4;
Isa. 50:6; 53:5.
NOTE.
-"Benevolence
was the life of
His
soul."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 191.
CM]
"All things Christ received from God,
but He took to give. So in the heavenly
courts, in His ministry for all created be-
ings: through the beloved Son, the Fa-
ther's life flows out to all; through the Son
it returns, in praise and joyous service, a
tide of love, to the great Source of all.
And thus through Christ the circuit of
beneficence is complete, representing the
character of the great Giver, the law of
life."—Ibid.,
p. 21.
4.
What further gift did Jesus
promise to those who believed on
Him? John 14:16, 26; Acts 1:8.
NOTE.—"What gift could He bestow rich
enough to signalize and grace His ascen-
sion to the mediatorial throne? It must be
worthy of His greatness and His royalty.
He determined to give His representative,
the third person of the Godhead. This gift
could not be excelled."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol.
6, p. 1053.
5.
What part do the angels have in
God's great plan of giving? Heb.
1:14.
NOTE.—"The angels of glory find their
joy in giving,—giving love and tireless
watchcare to souls that are fallen and un-
holy. Heavenly beings woo the hearts of
men; they bring to this dark world light
from the courts above; by gentle and pa-
tient ministry they move upon the human
spirit, to bring the lost into a fellowship
with Christ which is even closer than they
themselves can know."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 21.
The Spirit of Giving in the
Scriptures
6.
How did the church in the
wilderness set a worthy example in
liberal giving for us today? Ex. 35:
22; 36:5, 6. Compare 1 Chron. 29:9.
7.
What two New Testament illus-
trations of sacrificial giving are re-
corded for our admonition? Luke
21:1-4; Acts 4:34, 35.
Inspired Guide in Christian Giving
8.
What reasonable principle
should determine our giving to the
Lord? Deut. 16:17.
NoTE.—We give nothing personally until
after we have returned to God the tithe
which is His own. It does not belong to
us at all. Our giving begins after the tithe.
"The contributions required of the He-
brews for religious and charitable purposes
amounted to fully one fourth of their in-
come."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 527.
9.
How should we not give? What
kind of giver does Paul say God
loves? 2 Cor. 9:7.
NOTE.—"Whenever God's people, in any
period of the world, have cheerfully and
willingly carried out His plan in system-
atic benevolence and in gifts and offerings,
they have realized the standing promise
that prosperity should attend all their
labors just in proportion as they obeyed
His requirements."—Testimonies, Vol. 3,
p. 395.
"For things that are needless, often
harmful, professed Christians are today
spending more, many times more, than
they spend in seeking to rescue souls from
the tempter."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 207.
10.
Why should we give freely to
the Lord? Matt. 10:8, last part.
NOTE.—"What is the value of money at
this time, in comparison with the value of
souls? Every dollar of our means should
be considered as the Lord's, not ours; and
as a precious trust from God to us; not to
be wasted for needless indulgences, but
carefully used in the cause of God, in the
work of saving men and women from
ruin."—Life Sketches,
page 214.
[ 36 ]
11.
How did Paul encourage the
early church in systematic giving?
1 Cor. 16:1, 2.
NOTE.—"Those churches who are the
most systematic and liberal in sustaining
the cause of God, are the most prosperous
spiritually. . . . Worldliness and coveteous-
ness are eating out the vitals of God's
people."—Sons
and Daughters of God,
page
264.
12.
In what words did Jesus rule
out any unnecessary display in giv-
ing? Matt. 6:3, 4.
NOTE.—"Christ's own words make His
meaning plain, that in acts of charity the
aim should not be to secure praise and
honor from men. Real godliness never
prompts an effort at display. Those who
desire words of praise and flattery, and
feed upon them as a sweet morsel, are
Christians in name
only."—Thoughts From
the Mount of Blessing,
page 80.
Promises to the Faithful Giver
13.
What promise is given to those
who faithfully share their material
blessings with the Lord and with
those who are in need? Luke 6:38.
Compare 2 Cor. 9:6.
NOTE.—"Let us not complain because
we are often asked to give for the up-
building of the cause. What is it that
makes these frequent calls a necessity? Is
it not the rapid increase of missionary
enterprises? Shall we, by refusing to give,
retard the growth of these enterprises? .
"All who possess the Spirit of Christ will
have a tender, sympathetic heart, and an
open, generous hand. . .
"The more we bring to God's treasure-
house, the more we shall have to bring;
for He will open ways before us, increas-
ing our substance."—Ellen G. White,
Our
High Calling,
page 197.
14.
How does Paul further set forth
the wonderful blessings of liberal
giving? 2 Cor. 9:8-15.
Personal Appeal
1.
Is love such a motivating factor in
my giving of time, talents, and means that
it leads me to give cheerfully and sacri-
ficially?
2.
Do I give myself along with my gifts?
Lesson 12, for December 17, 1966
The Spirit of Faithfulness
MEMORY VERSE:
"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking
unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith
;
who for the joy that was
set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down
at the right hand of the throne of God." Heb. 12:1, 2.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary." For Spirit of Prophecy comments
on
"Faithfulness," "Loyalty," "Steadfastness," "Persecution;" and "Promises," see
"Index to the Writings of E. G. White."
STUDY AIM:
To see the importance of faithfulness,
and to develop this essential
Christian grace.
[ 37 ]
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check
Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-3.
Tuesday: Questions 4-6; begin
reading study helps.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 7-9; read
further from study helps.
Thursday: Questions 10-14.
Friday: Finish reading study helps
and review entire lesson.
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Faithfulness of Jesus
1.
Faithful under test and temptation.
Matt. 4:1-11.
2.
Faithful even to Calvary. Matt.
27:33-38.
II. Heroes of Faith
3. Trials of the faithful worthies.
Heb. 11:35-40.
III. Faithful Promises
4.
Not one promise failed. 1 Kings
8:56.
5.
We can depend on Him. 2 Thess.
3:3; 1 Cor. 10:13.
6.
A never-failing source of strength.
1 Peter 4:19.
IV. Exhortations to Faithfulness
7.
Report of faithfulness always
cheering. Phil. 1:27.
8.
Peter's timely warning. 2 Peter
3:17.
9.
Faithful to death. Rev. 2:10,
last part.
V. Rewards of Faithfulness
10.
Faithfulness rewarded. Matt.
25:21, 23.
11.
Crown of righteousness for faith-
ful Paul. 2 Tim. 4:7, 8.
12.
Final rewards of the faithful.
Rev. 7:9, 14-17; 14:4; 15:2;
20:4; 22:14.
VI. Pressing Faithfully Forward
13.
A harvest if we do not faint.
Gal. 6:9.
14.
Persevere with eyes on Jesus.
Heb. 12:1, 2.
THE LESSON
Introduction
In this life we must expect trials to
come. "Everyone has his individual tests
and trials in the drama of
life."-Testi-
monies,
Vol. 3, p. 541. Before Jesus re-
turns, these tests may assume very sizable
proportions for the child of God. "Yea, and
all that will live godly in Christ Jesus
shall suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12.
"The great crisis is just before us. To
meet its trials and temptations, and to
perform its duties, will require persevering
faith."-Testimonies,
Vol. 6,
p.
404.
The Faithfulness of Jesus
1. How did Jesus remain faithful
under great test and temptation?
Matt. 4:1-11.
NoTE.-Christ remained steadfast in the
face of the greatest tests and temptations,
the most enticing allurements of the world
any being has ever been subjected to. "Man
will never be tried by temptations as
powerful as those which assailed Christ"-
Counsels on Stewardship,
page 210.
2. To what extent was Jesus faith-
ful during His earthly ministry?
Matt. 27:33-38. Compare Phil. 2:5-8.
NOTE.-"And, having become man, He
humbled Himself by living a life of utter
obedience, even to the extent of dying,
and the death He died was the death of
a common criminal." Phil. 2:8, Phillips.
f 881
"It was humiliation indeed for God to
become man; and then, being man, to
die a shameful death on the cross. . . .
It was a death that involved intense
shame as well as intense suffering. . .
Even the Gentiles considered it the most
foul and cruel of all punishments."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Phil. 2:8.
Heroes of Faith
3.
To what fiery trials were the
faithful worthies listed in Hebrews
11 subjected? Heb. 11:35-40.
NOTE.—"SO it will be with all who will
live godly in Christ Jesus. Persecution and
reproach await all who are imbued with
the Spirit of Christ. The character of the
persecution changes with the times, but
the principle—the spirit that underlies it
—is the same that has slain the chosen
of
the
Lord ever since the days of Abel."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 576.
Faithful Promises
4.
In Solomon's prayer, of what did
he remind the congregation? 1 Kings
8:56. Compare Heb. 10:23.
NOTE.—"God never fails. He has made
many promises to His people, and He is
faithful in carrying them out. . . . If men
fail to receive the blessings that the Lord
has promised to give them, it is because of
failure on the part of man."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Kings 8:56.
"In His promises and warnings, Jesus
means
me."—The Desire of Ages,
page 390.
5.
What assurance have we that
the Lord will sustain and strengthen
His believers? 2 Thess. 3:3; 1 Cor.
10:13. Compare 1 Cor. 1:9.
NOTE.—"The absolute dependability of
God is the basis for Paul's statement that
the believers will be preserved unreprovable
until the last. God's promises, like His
character, are unchangeable. This is a
source of constant comfort to the Chris-
tian living in the increasingly unstable
world of today."—S.D.A.
Bible Commen-
tary,
on 1 Cor. 1:9.
6.
When trials come, to what
source of strength may we always
have access? 1 Peter 4:19. Compare
2 Timothy 1:12.
NoTE.—"In the time of trial before us
God's pledge of security will be placed
upon those who have kept the word of
His patience. Christ will say to His faith-
ful ones: 'Come, My people, enter thou
into thy chambers, and shut thy doors
about thee: hide thyself as it were for a
little moment, until the indignation be
overpast.' Isaiah
26:20."—Testimonies,
Vol.
6, p. 404.
Exhortations to Faithfulness
7.
What report always cheers the
heart of a Christian worker? Phil.
1:27.
8.
What timely warning does the
apostle Peter record? 2 Peter 3:17.
NoTE.—"Do not lose your own safe
foothold." N.E.B.
"Believers are urged to remain firm in
their faith, allowing nothing to disturb
them. This appeal to rocklike stability is
reinforced by the grand truth of the res-
urrection so ably expounded by the apostle
in this chapter. In the light of such won-
derful assurances for the future, believers
should not be influenced by the manifold
temptations of the devil, whether to in-
dulge the flesh or, through the avenue of
worldly philosophy, to turn from the cer-
tain facts of the gospel. No person or
thing is to be permitted to shake the
believer from the foundation of his faith
and hope."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
1 Cor. 15:58.
[89]
9.
To what lengths will the child
of God follow his Lcrd in faithful-
ness? Rev. 2:10, last part.
NOTE.—"The Greek verb form implies,
`continue to be faithful,'. . . 'up to and
including death.'
"—S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary,
on Rev. 2:10.
"Every crown that is given to the saints
of the Most High will be bestowed by the
hands of Christ—these hands that cruel
priests and rulers condemned to be nailed
to the cross."—Ellen G. White Comments,
Ibid., Vol.
7, p. 958.
Rewards of Faithfulness
10.
What reward came to the faith-
ful servants in the parable of the
talents? Matt. 25:21, 23.
NOTE.—"The Lord does not reward the
large amount of labor. He does not regard
the greatness of the work so much as the
fidelity with which it is done. The good
and faithful servant is rewarded. As we
cultivate the powers God has given us,
we shall increase in knowledge and percep-
tion."—Counsels
to Parents, Teachers, and
Students,
page 513.
"The master's approval was not propor-
tionate to the amount of profit in each
case, but rather to the faithfulness dis-
played. . . . In part, a reward for faithful
service comes in this life, but Jesus here
refers primarily to the rewards of the
world to come."—S.D.A.
Bible Commen-
tary,
on Matt. 25:21.
11.
To what did Paul look forward
at the end of a life of faithful service?
2 Tim. 4:7, 8.
NOTE.—"During the dark hours of his
[Paul's] noble fight for the faith the splen-
dor of his Lord's promises had imparted
courage and hope. . . .
"Paul knows of no immediate entrance
into heaven at death; the second advent is
`that day' when the redeemed will be re-
warded with eternal life. ... The righteous,
both dead and living, will receive their
reward of eternal life at the same time,
`at that day.'
"—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on 2 Tim. 4:8.
12.
What glorious experience lies
ahead for the faithful servant of God?
Rev. 7:9, 14-17; 14:4; 15:2; 20:4;
22:14.
Pressing Faithfully Forward
13.
What encouraging words has
Paul written to strengthen us in
well-doing? Gal. 6:9.
NOTE.—"Christ illustrated the bestowal
of eternal rewards by comparing it with
the harvesttime.
. .
"Only those who endure to the end can
expect to receive a reward for doing well.
Too often in the Christian warfare would-
be soldiers of the cross have fainted and
given up the struggle. . . . On the other
hand, what a picture of heroism is pre-
sented in the courageous attitude of the
thousands of Christian martyrs who faced
the cruelest of deaths rather than relinquish
their steadfast confidence in the One who
redeemed them from their
sins."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Gal. 6:9.
14.
To whom does Paul direct us
for the patience needed in remaining
faithful? Heb. 12:1, 2.
NOTE.—"Looking away [from all that
will distract] to Jesus, who is the Leader
and
the Source of
our
faith." Heb. 12:2,
The Amplified New Testament.
"Looking unto Jesus.
That is, for grace
and strength to overcome every difficulty
and to endure unto the end. . . . To keep
the eye of faith fixed upon Jesus is to
maintain uninterrupted contact with Him
who is the source of power, Him who
can strengthen us to endure and to over-
come."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
Heb. 12:2.
[ 40 ]
Personal Appeal
Do
I
"maintain uninterrupted contact
with Him who is the source of power"?
Have I settled my relationship to the
Lord and to His last-day message?
Am I faithful in the little tests now, so
that I may be faithful when greater tests
come before Jesus returns?
"The influence growing out
of Sabbath School work
should improve and enlarge
the
church."-Counsels on
Sabbath School Work,
page
9.
Lesson 13, for December 24, 1966
The Spirit of Brotherhood
MEMORY VERSE:
"Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on
the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus."
Phil. 2:4, 5.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary," and Spirit of Prophecy comments on
Scripture references; "The Desire of Ages," pages 325-327.
STUDY AIM:
To learn• from Christ's teaching and example how to love our
fellowmen.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Tuesday: Questions 5-8.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 9-13.
Thursday: Read study helps.
0
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
'Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Spirit of Brotherhood in the
Saviour's Ministry
1.
Jesus revealed the true scope of
Christian brotherhood. Mark
3:31-35.
2.
Christ's enemies noted His im-
partiality. Matt. 22:16.
3.
The Saviour mingled with people
of all levels of society. Mark 14:3;
Luke 14:1; John 2:1, 2.
4.
Jesus recognized no barriers to
the
giving of the gospel. John 4:7-15.
II. We Are All Brethren
5. One Master, all brethren. Matt.
23:8, last part.
6.
Malachi describes the brotherhood
of man. Mal. 2:10.
7.
All nations made of one blood.
Acts 17:26.
8.
Paul and Peter rule out proud
nationalism. Gal. 3:28; Acts 10:
34, 35.
III. The Spirit of Christ Molds Our
Relationships With Others
9.
The touchstone of our
attitude
as
Christians. Phil. 2:5.
10.
An inspired guide in our relation-
ships with others. Col. 3:12, 13.
11.
Further helpful counsel. Rom.
12:10, 18.
12.
Stumbling blocks to be avoided.
Rom. 14:13.
13.
Love, the only antidote for ill will.
Mark 12:31; Rom. 13:10.
[
41]
THE LESSON
Introduction
levels of society? Mark 14:3; Luke
14:1; John 2:1, 2.
When the apostle John was given a
vision of the rise of the advent movement,
he saw an angel with "his right foot upon
the sea, and his left foot on the earth."
Rev. 10:2. Later he was shown another
mighty angel proclaiming the judgment-
hour message to all "that dwell on the
earth, and to every nation, and kindred,
and tongue, and people." Rev. 14:6. From
these prophecies it is clear that God's last-
day movement is to be an international
movement.
It is the Lord's desire that these loved
ones, gathered out from among all nations,
tribes, and races of earth, will be brought
together in a Christian brotherhood that
will be a marvel to the whole world.
Christ's prayer to the Father is that His
people "may be one, even as We are one:
. . . and that the world may know that
Thou has sent Me." John 17:22, 23. For
"all ye arc brethren." Matt. 23:8.
The Spirit of Brotherhood
in the Saviour's Ministry
1.
How did Jesus reveal the true
scope of Christian brotherhood?
Mark 3:31-35.
NOTE.—"Dear and tender as were the
ties which bound Him to His mother and
brethren, yet those which bound Him to
His disciples were more tender and sacred."
—Albert Barnes Notes,
on Matt. 12:48.
"All who would receive Christ by faith
were united to Him by a tie closer than
that of human kinship."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 325.
2.
What had even His enemies
noted about Christ's relationships
with His fellowmen? Matt. 22:16.
3.
How is the Saviour's freedom
from human prejudices revealed in
His personal contact with different
4.
How did Jesus break through
man-made barriers to bring salva-
tion to a needy soul? John 4:7-15.
NoTE.—"He [Jesus] completely disarmed
her prejudice and foiled her attempt to
evade ,the issue by making it clear that
He did not °share the religious bias that
separated the Jews from the Samaritans.
Both might become 'true worshipers.'
"—
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on John 4:21.
We Are All Brethren
5.
What is the basis for Christian
brotherhood? Matt. 23:8, last •part.
Compare Gal. 3:28, last part.
NOTE.—"Those who, in the spirit and
love of Jesus, will become one with Him,
will be in close fellowship one with an-
other, bound up by the silken cords of
love. Then the ties of human brotherhood
would not be always on the strain, ready at
any provocation to snap asunder. 'All ye
are brethren' will be the sentiment of
every child of faith. When the followers
orChrist are one with Him, there will be
no first and last, no less respected or less
important ones. A blessed brotherly fellow-
ship one with another will bind all who
truly receive the Lord Jesus Christ in a
firm loyalty that' cannot be broken. All
will be equally one with Christ."—Ellen G.
White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary,
Vol. 5, pp. 1097, 1098.
6.
How does the prophet Malachi
further describe the brotherhood of
man? Mal. 2:10.
7.
In his sermon at Athens how did
'Paul refer to the common origin of
the human family? Acts 17:26.
[ 42 ]
8.
How do Paul and Peter rule out
any spirit of proud nationalism
from the experience of the Christian?
Gal. 3:28; Acts 10:34, 35.
NOTE.—"Respecter of persons.
Gr.
pros-
polemptes ,
'one who receives the face,'
and so, one who distinguishes between
persons on the basis of outward appear-
ances. . . .
"In every nation.
Peter dimly realized
that Christianity was not to be national.
In his dealings with Cornelius he began to
see how this might be, though he did not
yet understand it thoroughly. Paul would
shortly declare that neither race, nor sex,
nor social status have any bearing in God's
sight (Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:10,
11) ."—S.D .A
Bible Commentary,
on Acts 10:34, 35.
The Spirit of Christ Molds
Our Relationships With Others
9.
What mind should be manifest
in all the attitudes of the Christian?
Phil. 2:5.
NOTE.—"Let Christ Himself be your
example as to what your attitude should
be." Phillips.
"Much more prayer, much more Christ-
likeness, much more conformity to God's
will, is to be brought into God's work."—
Evangelism,
page 559.
"Study carefully the divine-human char-
acter, and constantly inquire, 'What would
Jesus do were He in my place?' This should
be the measurement of our duty."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 491.
10.
What attribute of Christian
grace will smooth our relationships
with those not of our own nation-
ality, race, or social group? Col. 3:
12, 13.
Give a Christmas gift to Jesus
this thirteenth Sabbath.
11.
In what other helpful counsel
does the apostle promote brotherly
love? Rom. 12:10, 18.
NoTE.—"A result of true affection is that
one does not seek his own honor or position
but is willing to give honor to others.
Christian brethren who are motivated by
genuine love will be more forward to
pay respect than to receive it. None will
be ambitious to gather honor to himself,
but each will be eager to show honor to
his fellow believers."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
m entary,
,
on Rom. 12:10.
12.
What caution is given regard-
ing the placing of stumbling blocks
in the way of a brother? Rom. 14:13.
13.
What is the only antidote for
the ill will so prevalent among the
people of the earth today? Mark
12:31; Rom. 13:10.
NOTE.—"When those who profess to
serve God follow Christ's example, practic-
ing the principles of the law in their daily
life; when every act bears witness that they
love God supremely and their neighbor as
themselves, then will the church have
power to move the world."—Christ's
Object
Lessons,
page 340.
"It is the,
work of the Holy Spirit from
age to age to impart love to human hearts,
for love is the living principle of brother-
hood."—T
estimonies,
Vol. 8, p. 139.
Personal Appeal
Is true Christian love the controlling
motive of my life?
Is Jesus my example in all of my con-
tacts with others?
Am I patient, understanding, and kind
in all my relationships with those who
are not part of my national, racial, or social
group?
[ 43 3
Lesson 14, for December 31, 1966
Becoming Like Him
MEMORY VERSE:
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and
I
pray
God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the
coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thess. 5:23.
STUDY HELPS:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "Our High Calling," pages 25, 27, 29,
99, 213, 217, 303; "Steps to Christ," chapters "Growing Up Into Christ" and
"The Privilege of Prayer"; and other Spirit of Prophecy comments on Scrip-
ture references.
STUDY AIM:
To understand the glorious provision God has made for us to become
like the Saviour in our daily lives.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sunday: General survey; learn
memory verse.
Monday: Questions 1-4.
Tuesday: Questions 5-10.
Wednesday: Questions 11-14.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Standard to Be Reached
1.
Sanctification-Christlikeness
the
goal before us. 1 Thess. 5:23.
2.
Our lives must be hid with Christ.
Col. 3:2-4; 1 John 3:1-3; 2:15-17.
3.
Perfect as He is perfect. Matt. 5:48.
4.
Only holiness will prepare us to see
the Lord. Heb. 12:14.
II. How the Experience of Christlike-
ness May Become Ours
5. It is a progressive experience.
2 Peter 3:18; Phil. 3:13, 14.
6. We must consider Jesus. Heb.
3:1; 2 Cor. 3:18.
7. We
must learn of
Him.
Matt.
11:29; John 6:68.
8. We must follow Him. John 12:26.
9. We must eliminate objectionable
traits of character. Col. 3:5, 6.
10. We must do all to the glory of God.
1 Cor. 10:31.
III. Encouraging Assurances of Help
11. Partakers of the divine nature.
2 Peter 1:3-5, 10, 11.
12. God wills that we should be like
Jesus. 1 Thess 4:3, first part.
13. In Christ only is there strength.
John 15:5; Isa. 27:5.
14. His grace is sufficient. 2 Cor. 12:9.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Like Christ
is the watchword, not like
your father or your mother, but like Jesus
Christ-hid in Christ, clothed with Christ's
righteousness, imbued with the Spirit of
Christ. All the peculiarities given us as an
inheritance or acquired by indulgence or
through erroneous education must be
thoroughly overcome, decidedly resisted."-
Our High Calling,
page 29.
"Now is the time for us. to form char-
acters after the divine Model. . . . If we
know Christ, we shall reveal Him to
others."-Ibid., page 303.
[
44]
SOUTH AMERICAN DIVISION
UNIONS
POPULATION
CILUIL S
C.11P4f,"
sAlugg.
AUSTRAL
25,341,020
109
17,583
17,955
CHILEAN
8,001,000
66
10,060
9,441
NORTH BRAZIL
10,631,000
36
9,328
11,675
EAST BRAZIL
35,668.000
153
27,173
33,671
INCA
18,804,219
153
36,822
38,553
SOUTH BRAZIL
34,723,000
210
55.959
68,234
TOTALS
133,168,239
727
156,925
179,529
SOUTH BRAZIL UNION
BRAZIL.
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